NEENAH – Ian Steen’s one-timer late in the second period proved to be the difference for Waupun’s boys hockey team Tuesday in a 2-1 Southern Badgerland win at Neenah.
The Warriors (1-0) took the lead with just under six minutes left in the first period. A bunch-up around the Neenah goal collapsed the defense.
The puck went behind the net to Curt Hansen, who set up Nick Tank for a one-timer past Neenah goaltender Josh Naundorf. Chase VandeZande had the second assist for Waupun.
Neenah (0-1) tied the score in the second as Alec Herb set up Jake Del Hoyo.
“Give Neenah credit, they played a great game,” Waupun coach Bret Grant said. “It was a very physical game for a season opener.
“We played really good hockey. Overall, it was a very exciting game.”
Waupun hosts Fox Cities next Tuesday.
WAUPUN 2, NEENAH 1
Waupun 1 1 0 - 2
Neenah 0 1 0 - 1
First period: W – Tank (Hansen, C. VandeZande), 5:55.
Second period: N – Del Hoyo (Herb, Jones), 5:20; W – Steen (Montsma, Arnold), 1:10
Saves: W (Miller) 15, N (Naundorf) 26.