RUTLAND, Vt. - The Castleton University men's hockey team suffered a 5-0 defeat at the hands of Skidmore in conference action Friday evening at Spartan Arena. 

The Thoroughbreds (9-6-1, 5-4-1 NEHC) used a two-goal first period to take a commanding lead heading into the intermission, scoring at the 17 minute mark and finding the back of the net once again just a minute later. 

Castleton (4-12-1, 0-9-1 NEHC) saw a power play opportunity in the final seconds of the first period, but wasn't able to trim the deficit with the man advantage. Skidmore tacked on another pair in the second to deal the hosts a 4-0 hole. The final Thoroughbred tally came with less than a minute remaining in the contest. 

The Spartans compiled 25 shots on goal, led by Zach Papapetros with five. Glenn Wiswell followed with three. Skidmore's Tate Brandon earned the shutout, stopping all 25 Castleton attempts. Kyle Alaverdy totaled 31 saves, logging the full 60 minutes. 

Calvin Moïse, Sam Rennert, and Jared Fisher each contributed strong efforts in the face-off circle - Moïse led the way with 13 victories on the evening. 

The Spartans return to action Friday, January 21 for a tilt with rival Norwich at Kreitzberg Arena.