BREAKING: The fourth-ranked Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs suffered a heartbreaking 3-2 overtime loss against the seventh-ranked Western Michigan Broncos on Saturday at Lawson Ice Arena in Kalamazoo. This intense matchup marks a significant moment in NCHC play as the Bulldogs were unable to secure a win after taking the lead twice.
In a nail-biting finish, William Whitelaw netted the game-winning goal for the Broncos during overtime, denying the Bulldogs a critical victory. The loss leaves Minnesota Duluth struggling with a 4-5 record on Saturdays this season, with both recent defeats occurring in the sudden death format.
The game began with excitement as Harper Bentz scored his first goal since returning from injury, giving the Bulldogs an early lead at 1-0 in the first period. Freshman wing Hunter Anderson assisted Bentz after a crucial turnover by the Broncos. This marked a triumphant return for Bentz, who had missed 12 games due to an upper body injury.
However, the Broncos quickly retaliated, with Callum Arnott restoring the Bulldogs’ lead at 2-1 after scoring on a rebound late in the second period. The thrilling back-and-forth continued as Whitelaw tied the game once more, forcing overtime.
Bulldogs’ sophomore goaltender Adam Gajan made an impressive 27 saves, including a standout diving glove save that helped keep UMD in the game. Meanwhile, Western Michigan’s sophomore goaltender Hampton Slukynsky recorded 18 saves during the matchup.
“We fought hard, but just couldn’t finish it off,” said Gajan after the game.
Despite the setback, Minnesota Duluth walks away from Kalamazoo with four NCHC points from the series after securing a 4-1 victory on Friday. The Bulldogs will look to rebound as they prepare to host Arizona State at 7 p.m. on December 12 and 5 p.m. on December 13 at Amsoil Arena in Duluth. This series will be pivotal as they head into a two-week holiday break.
Stay tuned for updates as the Bulldogs aim to reclaim their momentum in the upcoming series!
