SAINT PAUL, MINN.--The Hamline University men's hockey team defeated Bethel 6-3 on Saturday, marking their first victory of the 2024-25 season. The Pipers snapped a three-game losing skid to the Royals after sweeping them in 2022-23.

The Pipers improve to 1-5-0, 1-3-0 MIAC, while the Royals fall to 3-4-1, 1-1-0 MIAC.

Hamline 6, Bethel 3

In the first period saw Hamline take an early 1-0 lead with a goal by Owen Van Tassel at 5:53, assisted by Dallas Duckson and Charles Levis. Bethel's goalie, Marco Duronio, faced several shots but managed to keep the score within reach with key saves, particularly during a Pipers power play following penalties at 9:49. Despite Bethel winning the majority of faceoffs, they were unable to capitalize on their opportunities, with Maximillian Haselbacher making multiple saves for Hamline. The period ended with the Pipers leading 1-0, and Bethel starting the second period with a player in the penalty box due to a five-minute hitting from behind penalty on Jake Herter.

The second period began with Hamline taking early control, winning the initial faceoff. The Royals gained a power-play opportunity at 1:39 after a holding penalty on Hamline's Ryan Brandt, but failed to capitalize. The Pipers then turned a power-play chance into success at 9:52 when Kyle Mortenson gave them a 2-0 lead, assisted by Will Matzke and Carson Simon. Later in the period, Hamline extended their cushion to 3-0 with an even-strength goal by Carson Simon at 16:08, assisted by Matzke and Brandon McNamara. Maximillian Haselbacher, Hamline's goalie, consistently denied Bethel's attempts, registering multiple saves throughout the second frame.

Six goals were scored in the third period, which began with an early unassisted goal by Hamline's Tommy Carls at 00:25, extending their lead to 4-0. Bethel responded with a goal from Tyler Kostelecky at 3:17, followed by a short-handed score by Jack Brown at 4:50, narrowing the gap to 4-2. Both teams traded goals again with Hamline's Owen Van Tassel at 15:04, and Bethel's Joe Westlund at 15:18, keeping the score tight at 5-3. Tommy Carls sealed Hamline's victory with another unassisted goal at 16:51, ending the period at 6-3. The period was marked by significant goaltending efforts, with Maximillian Haselbacher of Hamline making multiple saves amidst Bethel's offensive attempts.

Tommy Carls led the Pipers with three points, including two goals and a game-winning goal. Kyle Mortenson made an impact with a power-play goal, contributing to his total of one goal and one point. Carson Simon also stood out with a goal and an assist, achieving a faceoff win percentage of 66%. Owen Van Tassel was effective in scoring, netting two goals. Maximillian Haselbacher, in goal, recorded 29 saves while allowing three goals in his appearance. 

Tyler Kostelecky led the team with one goal and one assist, contributing to a total of two points. His offensive contributions made him a key player for Bethel. Jack Brown was another player to watch, having scored one goal and maintaining a notable faceoff win percentage of 61%. Jake Herter stood out with a major penalty, indicating his physical presence on the ice. Jeremiah Konkel and Braeden Bartoo both excelled in faceoffs, each achieving a faceoff win percentage of 60%. Marco Duronio stopped 16 shots in net for the Royals, who out shot the Pipers 32-22.

Hamline will host Concordia (Minn.) for a non-conference game at TRIA Rink on Wednesday, November 27 at 6 p.m.