ST. PAUL, Minn. - The Hamline men's hockey team (2-8-1, 1-4 MIAC) scored two early goals in the first period, but saw Bethel (3-6-1, 2-2-1 MIAC) rally to claim a 3-2 win at TRIA Rink on Friday night.
 
It did not take long for the Pipers to claim an early lead, as sophomore Brandon Bissett fired a shot into the back of the net only two minutes into the game. This was Bissett's second goal this season. Only four minutes later teammate Riley Meyer tacked on to Hamline's lead, scoring his first collegiate goal to make it 2-0.
 
Both goals were assisted by junior Zak Lambrecht, who now has three goals and three assists so far this year.
 
The Royals rallied late in the second period, scoring twice to tie the game at two goals apiece. Their first goal came at 14:10, as they took advantage of an extra attacker to make it a one-goal game. It looked like the Pipers would take their one-goal lead into the third frame, but the Royals scored with just three seconds left to tie it 2-2.
 
Bethel capitalized on another power play in the third period, scoring at 8:38 to take over the lead. Penalties ended up being costly for the Pipers on the night, as they racked up 41 penalty minutes, compared to the Royals' 14.
 
After Bethel's third-period goal, HU had a couple of good chances to even it up as they were awarded a power play at 14:20 and then played with an empty net for the final two minutes. However, none of these opportunities led to goals, making the final 3-2 in favor of the Royals.
 
Senior Sam Nelson had 31 saves in net for the Pipers, which is the fifth time that he has stopped 30 or more shots in a game this season.
 
The Pipers will look to even the series tomorrow night, facing Bethel in Blaine at 7:00 p.m.