MINOT, ND – The No. 2-ranked Minot State men's hockey team earned a thrilling 2-1 overtime victory over No. 5 Niagara University Friday night at Maysa Arena, securing the win in the opening game of the two-game home series.

The Beavers struck early, as Matthew Yakubowski found the back of the net just under three minutes into the opening period. Matthew Ronn and Brett Tataryn picked up assists on the goal, giving Minot State an early 1-0 advantage. The Beavers carried the lead through the remainder of the first period.

Niagara answered in the second period, capitalizing on a power-play 7 minutes, 34 seconds into the period to even the score at 1-1. Neither team managed to break the tie throughout the remainder of regulation, sending the contest into overtime.

With a power-play opportunity of their own, Yakubowski delivered the game-winner 3 minutes, 38 seconds into overtime, burying his second goal of the night to send the Beavers home with a win. Joey Moffatt recorded the assist on the goal.

In goal, Will Dyke turned in an excellent performance, stopping 24 of Niagara's 25 shots on goal to finish with a .960 save percentage.

Minot State will look to complete the weekend sweep tomorrow night as the Beavers welcome the Purple Eagles back to Maysa Arena. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.