URGENT UPDATE: In a nail-biting overtime finish, the fourth-ranked Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs suffered a 3-2 defeat against the seventh-ranked Western Michigan Broncos on Saturday at Lawson Ice Arena in Kalamazoo, Michigan. This unexpected loss marks a significant moment in NCHC play, leaving fans stunned as the Bulldogs were unable to close out the game.
In a dramatic showdown, sophomore winger Harper Bentz opened the scoring for the Bulldogs, netting his first goal since returning from injury to give UMD a 1-0 lead. The goal came in the first period after Bentz and freshman Hunter Anderson capitalized on a turnover by the Broncos.
However, momentum shifted when junior winger William Whitelaw tied the game at 1-1 in the second period, showcasing his skill in a one-on-one matchup against Bulldogs goaltender Adam Gajan. The Bulldogs responded with a goal from sophomore Callum Arnott, who put UMD back in front with a powerful one-timer late in the period, making it 2-1.
The excitement continued as the Broncos rallied once more, with Zach Sharp scoring to level the match at 2-2. The tension peaked in overtime when Whitelaw found the net again, securing the victory for Western Michigan and earning them two crucial points in the NCHC standings.
Despite the loss, Bulldogs goaltender Adam Gajan delivered an impressive performance, recording 27 saves including a remarkable diving glove save that kept UMD in the game. The Bulldogs leave Kalamazoo with four NCHC points from the weekend after previously clinching a 4-1 victory over Western Michigan on Friday.
This game marks a tough stretch for the Bulldogs, who now stand at 4-5 on Saturdays this season, with their last two losses occurring in overtime. In NCHC play, they are currently 1-4 on Saturdays.
Looking ahead, the Bulldogs are set to host Arizona State for their final series of the year on December 12 at 7 p.m. and December 13 at 5 p.m. at Amsoil Arena in Duluth. This matchup comes just before a two-week holiday break, making it a critical opportunity for UMD to rebound.
The excitement of college hockey continues to build as the Bulldogs prepare for their next challenge. Fans will be eager to see if Minnesota Duluth can bounce back and finish strong before the holiday hiatus.
