University of Minnesota Athletics
Thomas Vanek Named WCHA Co-Offensive Player of the Week
3/8/2004 12:00:00 AM | Athletics
Vanek had an outstanding game in Friday's 7-4 win, scoring two goals and an assist. He scored both of his goals in the third period to help turn a close game into a convincing win for the Maroon and Gold. Vanek's first goal, only 44 seconds into the third period, turned out to be the game-winner - his first game-winning goal of the season. Vanek sealed the win at 10:47 of the period with his team-leading 21st lamplighter of the season. On Saturday, he had another strong game, tallying one assist on the eventual game-winning goal by Ryan Potulny. Vanek led the Golden Gophers in shots in both games, firing six on Friday and four on Saturday.
With his four points on the weekend, he became the 73rd member of Minnesota's career 100-point club. Vanek has 52-51--103 for his career and leads the Golden Gophers this season with 21-20--41.
The award is the seventh for a Minnesota player this season and the second Offensive Player of the Week honor for Vanek in 2003-04.
Minnesota opens the postseason this weekend with the first round of the WCHA Playoffs at Mariucci Arena. The Golden Gophers host St. Cloud State in a best-of-three series on Friday-Sunday, March 12-14. All game times are 7:05 p.m.
