BEMIDJI, Minn. – The Bemidji State University Men's Hockey team faced a tough loss against Ferris State University, falling 6–3 as the Bulldogs surged in the third period to decide the game. Despite Bemidji State's two power-play goals, including one in the final period, Ferris State capitalized with four goals in that frame.
 
"It was not a good game for the Beavers," head coach Tom Serratore stated. "We took a step back tonight. We had a great game on Saturday, but we didn't play with the desperation that Ferris State did." Serratore emphasized the need to seize scoring opportunities, urging the team to focus on shooting rather than overpassing. "I'd like to start seeing a little more shooting versus passing," he remarked, highlighting the need to capitalize on shooting chances against strong defensive teams. Despite a strong push in the third period, the Beavers couldn't close the gap, with Serratore acknowledging the importance of balancing aggression with smart play. As they prepare for their next matchup, the Beavers aim to improve their 5-on-5 play and bring more grit.
 
Oliver Peer led BSU with three points, netting one goal and adding two assists. Kasper Magnussen contributed with one goal and one assist, converting on a power play. Tory Lund scored his fourth goal of the season while Adam Flammang, Connor McClennon and Max Namestnikov added assists.
 
The first period saw Ferris State take an early lead at 6:29 when Gavin Best scored at even strength, assisted by Tyler Schleppe. Bemidji State answered at 11:51 as Peer capitalized on the power play, assisted by Magnussen and Adam Flammang. FSU regained the lead at 16:04 with a goal from Max Itagaki, assisted by Best and Logan Heroux, ending the period with the Bulldogs ahead 2–1.
 
In the second period, Bemidji State applied consistent offensive pressure but struggled to find the back of the net. Despite multiple chances, including shots from A.J. Macaulay and McClennon, all attempts were blocked or saved by FSU's defense and goaltender Martin Lundberg. The Bulldogs faced penalties but successfully killed off the Beavers' power plays, maintaining a strong defensive front. Both teams remained scoreless through the period.
 
Ferris State widened their lead early in the third period with an unassisted goal by Carter Rapalje at 19:31, making it 3–1. Connor McGrath added another at 17:30, and Rapalje struck again at 13:08, assisted by Max Dukovac, bringing the score to 5–1. Bemidji State responded with a power-play goal from Magnussen at 10:34, assisted by Peer and McClennon, and later Tory Lund narrowed the margin to 5–3 with an even-strength goal at 6:09. Despite pulling their goalie, the Beavers conceded an empty-net goal to Best at 1:37, sealing FSU's 6–3 victory.
 
The Beavers will attempt to bounce back tomorrow in game two against the Bulldogs. Puck drop is slated for 6:07 p.m., at Sanford Center.
 
For the most up to date information on the Bemidji State men's hockey program, tickets or schedules, visit BSUBeavers.com or follow the Beavers on X, 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).
 
--bsu—