MADISON, Wis. - Oakland was defeated 5-0 by the University of Wisconsin on Sunday as the Golden Grizzlies closed their Wisconsin road trip to start the season.
Oakland managed five shots during the match, but couldn't keep up with the attack of the Badgers who capitalized on nine shots on goal.
Despite a strong defensive effort by
Cole Thompson, who saved multiple shots early in the first half, Oakland struggled to contain the Badgers' offense. Key saves by Thompson came in the third and fifth minutes, but Wisconsin managed to score first with a goal by Markie Hrvojevic in the sixth minute, followed by another from Matthew Zachemski in the eighth as the Badgers took a 2-0 lead.
Oakland's effort to counter was highlighted by
Andriy Bilous's shot at the 28 minute mark and a subsequent corner kick, but they were unable to find the net. The Badgers continued their offensive push, adding goals from Julian Kuhr at in the 22nd minute and Roman Eisa in the 45th as Wisconsin took a 4-0 lead into the half.
In the second period, Oakland faced mounting pressure from the Badgers, but countered with attempts of their own. Despite a corner kick in the 63rd minute and a shot by
Miller Knestrict shortly after, Oakland was unable to find the back of the net.
Stephen Gilbert and
Grant Mateer also had shots that missed the target, as Wisconsin maintained a defensive stronghold. Wisconsin would tack on one more goal as Emile Kisse put a goal on the board in the 77th minute, closing the match with a final score of 5-0 in favor of Wisconsin.
Cole Thompson recorded four saves in the match, facing a total of 20 shots.
Stephen Gilbert attempted one shot, contributing to the team's offensive efforts.
Kinan Abdulrazzak also added one shot during the contest.
Miller Knestrict registered one shot, maintaining pressure on the opposing defense.
The Golden Grizzlies will play their first match at home on Thursday, Aug. 27 at 6 p.m. when Oakland hosts UIC.
