PRINCETON, N.J. (Hobey Baker Memorial Rink) -- Senior Jordan Heller and freshman Charlie Combs each scored twice to lead the Bemidji State University men's hockey team to a 5-3, series-opening victory at Princeton University, Wednesday.

After surrendering a goal just 75 seconds into the game, the Beavers bounced back to net three straight, hold a 3-1 lead at the conclusion of the first period and held off a second-period run by the Tigers to earn the two-goal non-conference victory.

In addition to the career-high goal-scoring performances by Combs and Heller, sophomore Zach Whitecloud posted a pair of assists in his return to the BSU lineup and Gerry Fitzgerald netted a goal.

Senior goaltender Michael Bitzer turned aside 27 shots to and allowed three goals in the victory. He improved to 5-4-1 on the season.

The Beavers and Tigers return to Hobey Baker Memorial Rink at 6 p.m. Friday to complete the series.

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