Penn State built a 4-2 lead behind freshman Shea Busch’s first two collegiate goals, but Notre Dame scored three unanswered goals—including Evan Werner’s overtime winner—to take a 5-4 Big Ten victory at Pegula Ice Arena. The loss drops the Nittany Lions to 2-6-1 overall and 0-2-1 in conference play.

By the Numbers
  • Busch scored 2 goals, his first collegiate goals.
  • Penn State converted 2 of 3 power plays; Notre Dame converted 1 of 3.
  • Notre Dame held a 42-40 edge in shots on goal; goalies Ryder Fetterolf and Patrick Quinlan made 37 and 36 saves, respectively.
  • Penn State has played 4 consecutive overtime games for the first time in program history and is 1-2-1 in overtime this season.
Yes, But

Penn State’s power play and Busch’s breakout gave the Nittany Lions a two-goal cushion, but Notre Dame controlled much of the latter half, outshooting Penn State 37-25 over the final two periods and overtime.

State of Play
  • Penn State is 0-2-1 in Big Ten play; Notre Dame improves to 1-2-0.
  • The teams meet again Saturday at 7 p.m. at Pegula Ice Arena.
What's Next

The teams close out the weekend series Saturday, with Penn State hosting its annual Teddy Bear Toss during the first intermission to benefit THON.

Bottom Line

Penn State showed offensive promise but couldn’t protect a two-goal lead, making Saturday’s rematch an immediate chance to respond.