The University of North Dakota (UND) secured a commanding **5-0 victory** over the Denver Pioneers on **October 27, 2023**, at the **Ralph Engelstad Arena**. Junior forward **Anthony Menghini** played a pivotal role in the win, contributing two goals and demonstrating a strong performance throughout the match.
Menghini, a native of Brainerd, Minnesota, has a history with Denver’s standout defenseman **Eric Pohlkamp**, having played alongside him during their youth hockey days. Despite their friendly rivalry, Menghini focused on his team’s success. “I have all the praise for him in the world,” Menghini remarked about Pohlkamp. “He’s a great player, and he’s a great kid.”
This match marked a significant turnaround for Menghini, who had struggled early in the season with just one goal in the first 13 games. In contrast, he has now scored three goals and accumulated seven points in the last nine games. **Dane Jackson**, head coach of the Fighting Hawks, noted Menghini’s improving performance: “I think he’s getting a little more comfortable… He’s done a good job of just kind of going and playing.”
Menghini’s scoring began in the first period, giving the Fighting Hawks a **2-0 lead** with a precise shot from the right faceoff circle, assisted by freshman defenseman **Sam Laurila**. His second goal, which extended the lead to **4-0**, came from a setup by freshman forward **Cole Reschny**. “It’s super nice, but I’ve got to give credit to my teammates setting me up for those easy goals,” Menghini said.
Beyond his scoring, Menghini displayed a strong two-way game, blocking shots and delivering key hits, including a notable hit on Garrett Brown, who did not return to the game. “You’ve just got to keep a level head, not too high, not too low,” Menghini emphasized. “Obviously, it is a great feeling, and it’s going to give me confidence going into the next game.”
Senior forward **Tyler Young** also had a notable night, finishing with two assists. Jackson praised the collective effort of the line, highlighting the synergy between Menghini, Young, and fellow linemate **David Klee**. “When you have that ability to play four lines, it’s a big deal,” he noted.
As the Fighting Hawks prepare for their next matchup, Menghini’s momentum could prove critical in maintaining their performance. The team looks to build on this victory, with Menghini poised to continue his scoring surge.
