Photo credit: Don Boesen, Boesen Photography
AUSTIN, MN – The Bruins scored three times in the first period, including twice in the first 2:15, to cruise to a 3-1 win over the Minot Mintauros on Friday night at Riverside Arena. The victory put the Bruins into a virtual tie for first place in the Central Division with the 'Tauros – each team now having earned 27 points – the Bruins with one more win.
After a 45 minute ice repair delay, the Bruins came out of the gate flying and opened the scoring just 90 seconds into the game. Justin Misiak finished off a tic-tac-toe passing play from A.J. Drobot and Jacob Paganelli and netted his 8th goal of the season. Just 45 seconds later, Jade Miller's centering pass went right off of Minot goaltender Jon Flakne and in behind him for a 2-0 Bruins edge. Dawson DiPietro and Gilbert Gabor were credited with assists. Late in the frame, Marcus Karlstrom scored his first NAHL goal, making a nice move out of the left-wing corner and sneaking a shot past Flakne. Assists went to Derek Olmschenk and DiPietro. Just before the end of the period, Minot notched a powerplay goal from Chase Springman to make it 3-1.
Neither team scored in the 2nd period but Jacob Paganelli and Johnny Walker engaged in a fight following a Jan Stefka five minute major and game misconduct. The Bruins would kill off nine of ten 'Tauros powerplay chances as their 3-1 lead stood up. Kris Carlson made 28 saves for his 11th win. The Bruins will look to take sole possession of first place on Saturday night as they seek their fourth consecutive win over Minot.
All military members, past and present will recieve free admission to Saturday night's game with military I.D.. The Bruins camouflage jerseys will be live-auctioned following the game with proceeds benefitting Defending the Blue Line. Tickets are on sale now at HyVee, Jim's Marketplace, Games People Play, and the Holiday Inn and Conference Center. Fans who pre-purchase ticket at these locations save $4 off the door price. Gates will open at 6:00, puck drop is 7:05.
