SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y.—Top ranked Norwich University came out on top in a classic defensive battle, 2-0 win over Skidmore College Saturday afternoon at the Saratoga Springs City Rink.

It was the first loss of the season for the Thoroughbreds (3-1-1, 2-1-1 NEHC). The Cadets are 4-0 and 3-0 in league play.

There were few offensive opportunities for either team in the first period. Skidmore killed off four penalties, including a :44 two-man advantage.

The second period played the same way until Ryan Broucher controlled a bouncing rebound to score the eventual game-winner at 10:17. Felix Brassard and Callum Jones assisted. The puck appeared to be kicked in, but the officials got together to confirm the score.

Brassard intercepted a breakout pass as Skidmore goalie Brandon Kasel was heading to the bench for an extra attacker. He one timed a shot into the empty net for the 2-0 final at 18:50.

Norwich out shot Skidmore 42-24. Kasel stopped a season-high 40 shots. Cadet keeper Tom Auburn lost what would have been his fourth shutout in five games when he and Skidmore's Mike Gelatt were given matching majors and game misconducts with five seconds to play.

The Thoroughbreds host Canton in a non-league game Friday at 7 p.m.