Sporting new uniforms, the Chargers looked for a spark at a place where they haven’t had much success. Unfortunately, UAH couldn’t find it in Wisconsin in a 5-0 loss on Thursday.
The Badgers outshot the Chargers 37-9 in a game that Wisconsin took control from the start.
Wisconsin lived in the offensive zone and scored two goals in the first eight minutes. Nic Kerdiles deflected a Kevin Schulze blast from the blue line that trickled between John Griggs’ legs for a 1-0 Badger lead four minutes in.
Wisconsin made it 2-0 almost three minutes later on the power play following a Frank Misuraca holding penalty. Michael Mersch punched in a centering pass by Derek Lee in which Griggs had little chance.
As the first period progressed, however, UAH started to find some flow and puck possession, if not shots on net. Griggs made a couple of big saves to keep the margin at two goals.
The Chargers opened the second period trying to build on the end of the first, but it still did not translate into many offensive chances. Wisconsin regained its dominance as the period progressed, holding UAH to shots on goal for the frame.
The Badgers scored its third goal at 13:51. From behind the net, Lee faked Griggs by making him go his right post, then passed it in front on the left side to Mersch, who had an easy, wide open net.
Wisconsin poured it on in the third period, scoring twice in the first 4:31 to put the game out of reach. Gregg Gruehl replaced Griggs to finish the game.
The Chargers and Badgers square off again Friday night at 7 p.m.