BEMIDJI, Minn. – The Bemidji State University Men's Hockey team defeated Northern Michigan University 7–3 Friday night in game one of their Central Collegiate Hockey Association series at Sanford Center. The Beavers capitalized on two power-play opportunities and saw a standout performance from Connor McClennon, who recorded four goals, including one game-winner and one on the power play. McClennon became the first Beaver to score four goals in a game since Owen Sillinger achieved the feat on Feb. 6, 2021.
 
Head coach Tom Serratore expressed satisfaction with the Beavers' performance following their victory over the Wildcats. "I just thought we had a really good first period," he remarked, noting the team's adherence to their game plan and significant zone time. Bemidji State secured an early lead, which was extended in the second period. Despite letting the Wildcats linger, a crucial fifth goal in the third period provided a comfortable cushion. Serratore highlighted McClennon's scoring impact, stating, "When he finds open ice, he's got a really good stick." Reflecting on the team's overall performance, Serratore acknowledged the importance of the win, noting the significance of securing three points in regulation as Bemidji State looks to build momentum.
 
The first period began with the Beavers winning the opening faceoff, setting an early tone. The Wildcats' Kyle Bettens had a shot blocked by Maxon Vig, and Evan Johnson's attempt was also deflected by Noah Quinn. Bemidji State then capitalized on a power-play opportunity midway through the period when McClennon scored the only goal at 9:55, assisted by Vincent Labelle. Despite multiple attempts by both teams, including a series of wide and blocked shots, the period ended with the Beavers leading 1–0.
 
McClennon struck early in the second period for Bemidji State at 1:29, assisted by Max Namestnikov and Reilly Funk, increasing their lead to 2–0. Just 22 seconds later, Vig extended it to 3–0 with a goal assisted by Labelle and Quinn. The Wildcats responded at 5:24 with Caiden Gault's goal, narrowing the gap to 3–1. McClennon completed his hat trick at 10:45, assisted by Oliver Peer and Vince Corcoran, to make it 4–1, netting the first Beaver hat trick since Ross Armour on Feb. 25, 2022. Michael Burchill's power-play goal for NMU at 15:43 brought the score to 4–2. However, the Beavers sealed the period with a power-play goal by Kasper Magnussen at 19:07, assisted by Adam Flammang and Kirklan Irey, concluding the period 5–2 in favor of the home team.
 
Bemidji State extended its lead early in the third period when Jake McLean scored at 17:41 with assists from Panzer and Tory Lund, making the score 6-2. McClennon added another for the Beavers on a power play at 14:40, assisted by Irey and Quinn, increasing the advantage to 7-2. The Wildcats responded with a goal from Danny Ciccarello at 7:03, closing the gap to 7-3. The period concluded without further scoring, securing Bemidji State's decisive victory.
 
Bemidji State improves to 8-5-2 overall and 6-1-2 in conference play earning three more points in league standings to improve their season total to 20 and remain on top of league standings.
 
For more information on the Bemidji State men's hockey program, tickets or schedules, visit BSUBeavers.com, follow the Beavers on X or Instagram or like them on Facebook.
 
Located on the shore of Lake Bemidji, Bemidji State University sponsors 15 varsity athletic programs with NCAA Division I men's hockey in the Central Collegiate Hockey Association and women's hockey in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association, while its 13 NCAA Division II programs hold membership in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC).
 
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