WATERLOO, ON — Two goals in a 35-second span gave the Western Mustangs an early advantage, but it was goaltender Liam Sztuska who kept Laurier off the scoreboard the rest of the way, stopping all 36 shots he faced to secure a 2–0 shutout victory over the Golden Hawks on Thursday night at Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex.
The Mustangs wasted little time getting on the scoreboard. At 5:35, Ben Campeau (#20) opened the scoring off an assist from Darius Bachler. Just 35 seconds later, Bachler (#11) doubled Western's lead, finishing a play set up by Sebastian Hicks to put the Mustangs ahead 2–0.
With an early two-goal lead, Western looked to maintain control as Laurier pushed to get back into the game. Both teams had opportunities on the power play in the second period, but neither could capitalize. As the Golden Hawks continued to look for a way through, Sztuska stood firm in net, turning aside each opportunity to preserve Western's lead.
The pressure continued into the third period, with Laurier looking to find a late breakthrough. Western held its ground defensively, limiting the Golden Hawks to no goals despite facing 36 shots throughout the night. Sztuska made every save count, finishing with a perfect performance to earn the shutout. Western recorded 28 shots in the victory.
The Mustangs will look to carry their momentum into their next matchup on Friday, October 30, when they travel to Columbia Icefield Arena (CIF Arena) to face the Waterloo Warriors. Puck drop is set for 2:30 p.m., and fans can watch the game live on OUA.tv.
