SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Freshman forward Kyle Novak's power play goal at 1:59 in the first period and a 24-save partial shutout performance by Frank Slubowski was all the Western Michigan hockey team needed to blank Alabama-Huntsville 1-0 in the consolation game of the Shillelagh Tournament at Notre Dame on Saturday afternoon.

A blast from Shane Berschbach was saved by UAH goalie Carmine Guerriero but the rebound bounced to Novak in the left circle and he punched it into an open net for his fourth goal of the season.

From there the Broncos (6-5-3, 2-2-0-0 NCHC) and Chargers battled for 58 scoreless minutes. Alabama-Huntsville was held scoreless on five power plays, with WMU converting on its lone advantage of the game. Western Michigan outshot Alabama-Huntsville 29-24 on the day.

Slubowski, who was just one shutout shy of tying the program record of eight, had to leave for 1:48 during the third period due to an equipment issue. The absence and insertion of Lukas Hafner resulted in Slubowski earning a partial shutout and falling shy of the record.

After getting the issue fixed Slubowski made a key save with 1:30 left in the third period. A shot from the left point was redirected by UAH's Jack Prince right in front of the net but the Bronco netminder slid to the right just in time to make the stop.

WMU killed off the remaining time to earn its second shutout of the season.

The Broncos are back in NCHC action next weekend when they host North Dakota on Friday and Saturday. Friday's game will be televised live on CBS Sports Network and Saturday's will be available on Bronco Insider.