(PEORIA, Ill., Oct. 18)--The McKendree University hockey team lost for the first time during the 2013-14 season, dropping a close 2-1 decision Friday night at Bradley University.

The Bearcats, now 2-1 on the year, will meet Bradley again Saturday at 3:45 p.m. to close out the weekend series. 

All of Friday's scoring came in the third period. McKendree struck first just 38 seconds into the final period on a power-play goal by junior defenseman Brandon Whitt. Bradley tied the score five minutes later, then scored the game-winner with just over 12 minutes to play.

Freshman Tony Salamone (Jefferson City, MO/Jefferson City) was stellar in goal for the Bearcats, stopping 29 shots in taking the hard-luck loss for McKendree.