UPDATE: In a heart-pounding overtime showdown, the fourth-ranked Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs fell 3-2 to the seventh-ranked Western Michigan Broncos on Saturday at Lawson Ice Arena. This dramatic loss marks another setback for the Bulldogs, who had high hopes following a strong 4-1 victory the previous night.
The game began with an electric atmosphere as Bulldogs’ sophomore wing Harper Bentz opened the scoring, netting his first goal since returning from injury. He capitalized on a turnover by the Broncos, putting UMD ahead 1-0 in the first period. However, the excitement was short-lived as Western Michigan responded quickly.
Broncos’ junior wing William Whitelaw tied the game at 1-1 in the second period, showcasing his skill on a one-on-one opportunity against Bulldogs’ goaltender Adam Gajan, who made a total of 27 saves during the match. UMD regained the lead with a goal from Callum Arnott, who capitalized on a rebound late in the second period, making it 2-1.
The intensity ramped up as Zach Sharp answered back for the Broncos, tying the game at 2-2, forcing the matchup into overtime. It was here that the tension reached its peak. With just under two minutes remaining in the extra period, Whitelaw struck again, scoring the game-winning goal and sealing the victory for Western Michigan.
This defeat leaves the Bulldogs with a 4-5 record on Saturdays this season, having lost their last two games in 3-on-3 overtime. UMD’s struggles on the ice are particularly evident in NCHC play, where they now hold a 1-4 record on Saturdays.
Looking ahead, the Bulldogs are set to host Arizona State for a two-game series at Amsoil Arena in Duluth. The first game is scheduled for 7 p.m. on December 12, 2025, followed by a rematch at 5 p.m. on December 13. As UMD prepares for their final series of 2025, fans are eager to see if the team can bounce back and regain their momentum before the holiday break.
Stay tuned for updates as the Bulldogs aim to turn the tide against Arizona State and reclaim their winning form on home ice.
