Albert Lea, MN - The McKendree University M1 Men's Hockey Team had a stout test on Saturday afternoon, as the Bearcats (13-18-1) were tasked with battling the nation's #1-ranked team, the Minot State Beavers (26-1-1) in the MCH Tournament Semifinals from Albert Lea City Arena. The fifth-seeded McKendree saw their MCH Tournament run come to an end to the top-seed Beavers, 14-2 in a physical matchup that featured 63 total penalty minutes and multiple game misconducts. 

The Beavers struck early, scoring just 1:36 into the opening period and adding four more in the first to build a 5-0 lead after 20 minutes. Despite the early surge from Minot State, the Bearcats continued to battle and found momentum early in the second period. 

At the 1:42 mark of the middle frame, Brady Nance broke through for McKendree, finishing a play set up by Bennett Uchacz and Trey Erramouspe to put the Bearcats on the board and briefly shift energy toward the McKendree bench. 

Midway through the second period, a sequence at 3:51 resulted in multiple major penalties and game misconducts on both sides, leading to extended special teams play and a more physical tone the rest of the way. Minot State capitalized on power play opportunities and offensive pressure, extending its lead before the second intermission. 

Despite the widening margin, McKendree continued to compete through the final horn. With just 22 seconds remaining, Jonathan Davenport netted the Bearcats' second goal of the game at 19:38 of the third period, assisted by Tanner Bettis and Uchacz.