BOSTON — Jason Zucker had a goal and an assist as the third-ranked University of Denver opened its season in impressive fashion, beating top-ranked Boston College 4-2 on Friday night.
Zucker scored the first goal for the Pioneers early in the first period and assisted on Drew Shore’s goal at 8:49 of the second period. That proved to be the game-winner.
Denver’s defense limited the Eagles to 23 shots on goal, and Adam Murray made 21 saves.
“I felt we did a great job with our neutral zone transition, and I’m really happy for Adam,” DU coach George Gwozdecky said.
Beau Bennett and David Makowski also scored for Denver.
Makowski iced the win with an empty-net goal from just outside DU’s blue line with 39 seconds left in the game.
DU won its opening game for the fifth consecutive season.
“Starting the season with a win, especially on the road, gives your team confidence,” Gwozdecky said.
Barry Almeida and Kevin Hayes had goals for the Eagles (2-1-0), who took over the top spot in the poll after winning last weekend’s Ice Breaker Tournament in North Dakota.
Parker Milner made 18 saves for Boston College.
Murray, who made eight saves in the final period, gave credit to the play of his defensemen for the win.
“My defensemen play amazing to say the least and the forwards were coming back for me,” Murray said. “I tip my cap to my defensemen.”
DU plays at Boston University tonight.
