SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich.- Lake Superior State dropped its second straight shutout decision to Western Collegiate Hockey Association opponent Minnesota State-Mankato, falling 3-0 to the Mavericks Saturday at Taffy Abel Arena.

The Lakers (3-13-0, 3-9-0 WCHA) gave the Mavericks (11-3-0, 9-1-0 WCHA) all they could handle for most of two periods before two third-period goals put the game out of reach for the home squad.

LSSU freshman goaltender Gordon Defiel was brilliant during the first two periods, giving up only a late first-period goal through the first two frames and blocking 30 shots, including a 17-save performance in the second period. The third period was unkind, however as the 7th-ranked Mavericks got goals 1:21 apart from Zach Stepan, his first of the season, and Matt Leitner's fourth of the season. Defiel ended with 38 saves on the evening.

Mavericks' netminder Stephon Williams was perhaps more impressive in recording his seventh career shutout while making 21 saves. Not nearly as tested against the quality scoring chances the Mavericks created on Defiel, Williams still thwarted all Lakers' offensive attacks throughout the game. Perhaps the only lapse by Williams came with just over 10 minutes remaining in the third period as Chris Ciotti's shot was scorched over Williams' shoulder before rattling off of the post.

The Mavericks opened the scoring with a goal by Dylan Margonari, which was reviewed, with 3:01 remaining in the first period. The game remained 1-0 through the two intermissions.

The Lakers travel to No. 2 North Dakota next weekend before rounding out the first half of the season at Ferris State. The next home games for the Lakers are scheduled for Jan. 16-17 against Bemidji State.

Final MSU 3 - LSSU 0