Top-Ranked Warriors Win and Draw No. 4 Minot State

MINOT, N.D. – Playing for the first time this season as the top-ranked team in the ACHA, No. 1 Midland University traveled north to face longtime rival No. 4 Minot State University. The two teams battled on the ice inside Maysa Arena on Friday and Saturday, ending regulation tied both nights. On Friday, the teams officially played to a 2-2 draw, while in Saturday's finale, the Warriors edged the Beavers 2-1 in overtime.

FRIDAY: Midland 2, Minot State 2 (OT)

After falling behind midway through the opening period, the Warriors found the equalizer in the final minute before intermission. Kiara McGregor scored on the power play with assists from Ashlyn Kuffler and Victoria Campbell.

Following a scoreless second period, Minot State regained the lead early in the third on a power play just 45 seconds into the frame. Less than two minutes later, Midland tied it again with its second power play goal of the night. Taylor Bell scored at the 1:46 mark off a feed from Grace Page and Makenna Larson.

The teams traded chances the rest of the way, with Midland holding the advantage in overtime shots. Minot State finished with a 40-23 edge in total shots.

Meghan Stewart recorded 38 saves to help Midland earn the draw.

SATURDAY: Midland 2, Minot State 1 (OT)

The Beavers struck first on Saturday, scoring three minutes into the opening period. They held the lead through the first, all of the second, and into the third before Midland broke through.

At the 8:07 mark of the third period, Grace Page found the back of the net off a setup from Katie McNair and Jadis Howden to tie the game. Neither team could find a go-ahead goal before the buzzer, sending the contest to overtime once again.

Unlike the night before, the Warriors capitalized on the open ice during the three-on-three extra period. Just over a minute in, Callie Maguire called game, scoring the winner off a feed from Jaden Greenlee.

Minot State held a 36-20 advantage in shots on goal. Natalie Rampton made 35 saves, including one in overtime, to earn the win for Midland.

Midland (17-1-1) will return to home ice next weekend to host Jamestown (4-6-0). The teams are scheduled for a 5 p.m. puck drop on Friday and a 4 p.m. start on Saturday in Fremont, Nebraska.