The Madison Capitols secured a commanding 5-1 win over the USNTDP U17 team in an exhilarating matchup on Saturday night at the Bob Suter's Capitol Ice Arena.
The Capitols got off to a strong start with Jack Brandt opening the scoring, netting his tenth goal of the season in the first period. Madison maintained their lead, heading into the second period up 1-0.
The second period saw the Capitols extend their lead with Andrew Kuzma scoring his 24th goal of the season on the power play, assisted by Jack Henry, who extended his point streak to four games. Gavin Uhlenkamp added to the lead with his fourth goal of the season, marking his second goal since returning to the team a week ago against Waterloo.
The third period showcased the depth of the Capitols' roster, as Mason Moe scored his first career USHL goal in his first game back after playing his high school hockey season with Eden Prairie HS. Brendan Lamb further solidified the Capitols' lead with his seventh goal of the season.
Although the USNTDP U17 team managed to score late in the third period, Patriks Berzins was stellar in goal for the Capitols, making 26 saves out of 27 shots and narrowly missing his second shutout of the season.
With this win, the Madison Capitols improve to 27-21-4-2 on the season, moving within four points of the Youngstown Phantoms for fourth place in the Eastern Conference. The Capitols will hit the road next weekend for three games in three days, including two crucial matchups against Youngstown.
