SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The Bemidji State University Men's Hockey team fell in game one of its best-of-three Central Collegiate Hockey Association Mason Cup Quarterfinal series at No. 14 Augustana University, 5-2, Friday night at MidCo Arena in Sioux Falls, S.D. Augustana took control early, netting four of its five goals in the first two periods including a three-goal second period. The Beavers responded in the third period with two goals, including a power-play tally, but it wasn't enough to close the gap.
 
Reflecting on the game, head coach Tom Serratore acknowledged Bemidji State's early challenges but praised the team's resilience. "It was a good first period," Serratore said, noting that the second period saw Bemidji State become disorganized, allowing Augustana to quickly build a 4-0 lead. "Obviously, it's tough to recover from a 4-0 deficit," Serratore admitted. Despite the setback, he commended the team's determination in the final period, stating, "Our guys made it a game." As the Beavers fought to regain momentum, they took risks. "You're taking a lot of chances," Serratore explained, highlighting the team's effort to claw back. Looking ahead, Serratore stressed the importance of regaining rhythm for the next matchup, aiming to "play good hockey" and enter game two with a positive mindset.
 
Connor McClennon led the charge with one goal and an assist, finishing with five shots on goal. Oliver Peer also contributed a goal and an assist, converting a power-play opportunity and tallying seven shots. Kasper Magnussen played a key role with two assists and six shots, facilitating the offense.
 
The first period saw the Vikings gain early momentum, controlling the puck and winning faceoffs. Bemidji State pressured Augustana's goal but couldn't convert, with Josh Kotai making crucial saves, including a stop on McClennon's shot at 19:44. Despite Bemidji State's offensive efforts, Landon Fandel broke the deadlock at 17:46, scoring Augustana's first goal with assists from Hayden Hennen and Brett Meerman. Bemidji State continued to press but ended the period scoreless, trailing 1-0.
 
Augustana expanded its lead in the second period with three more goals. Easton Young opened the scoring at 13:07 with an even-strength goal, assisted by Colton Friesen. Joey DelGreco then doubled the lead at 9:34, marking his sixth goal of the season, assisted by Samo Meritähti and Maxwell Chakrabarti. Nace Langus added to the tally at 5:51 with an assist from Owen Bohn and Friesen. Bemidji State struggled to capitalize on their opportunities, with Kotai making key saves to maintain the Vikings' shutout.
 
Bemidji State kicked off the third period strong with a goal by McClennon at 19:47, assisted by Magnussen and Peer, narrowing the score to 4-2. Just over a minute later, Peer capitalized on a power play opportunity, scoring with assists from McClennon and Magnussen to close the gap further. Despite this momentum, the Vikings maintained their lead and sealed the 5-2 victory with an empty-net goal by Friesen at 00:38. Bemidji State made several attempts but couldn't find the net again before the period ended.
 
The Beavers aim to keep their season alive tomorrow night in a do-or-die game two against the Vikings. Puck drop is scheduled for 6:07 p.m.
 
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—