Jake Ahlgren
Jake Ahlgren

Niagara Edges Bentley 3-1 for Series Split

NIAGARA UNIVERSTIY, N.Y. – Niagara University scored two goals 2:08 apart in the 3rd period in a 3-1 win over Bentley University on Saturday afternoon, to earn a series split at Dwyer Arena, which snapped a three-game unbeaten streak for the Falcons. Sophomore Jake Ahlgren (Fergus Falls, Minn./Wenatchee) scored for Bentley.

The first period was scoreless and defensive oriented with just 10 total shots, six to Niagara. Early in the 2nd period, Bentley had a three-minute power play opportunity starting at the 6:20 point after a major penalty on the Purple Eagles, but they were able to kill it off.

The first goal came past the halfway point of the game, at the 13:10 mark from sophomore Johnny Curran. Bentley wasn't able to find a way past Purple Eagles goalie Joe O'Brien for the tying goal, despite 14 shots in the 2nd.

In the 3rd period, Niagara scored twice inside the opening 5:39 to take a 3-0 lead. Defenseman Vinny Muto scored at 3:31, which was followed by a power play goal from forward Kris Spriggs 2:08 later.

Bentley got back in it as Ahlgren found the back of the net at 10:51, with Kyle Schmidt (Menomonee Falls, Wisc./Sioux City) and Drew Callin (Middleton, Wisc./Janesville) netting the assists. For Schmidt, it was his 4th point of the series after three points last night.

Bentley goalie Jayson Argue (Swan River, Manitoba/Nanaimo) was pulled with 2:14 left as they tried to cut into the deficit, but Niagara was able to hang on.

Bentley ended the game with a 38-30 edge in shots.

The Falcons fell to 5-7-4 in Atlantic Hockey games after they defeat. They will get back on the ice on Friday at Sacred Heart, in a game that will be televised on the American Sports Network.