The Gustavus men’s hockey team suffered its first MIAC loss of the season 4-1 to Bethel on Friday night in Blaine, Minn. The Royals got out to a 3-0 lead by the 10th minute of the second period and didn’t look back, as Jack Paul scored the first and third goals of the game. Gustavus falls to 4-2-1 overall while Bethel improves to 2-5.
Bethel’s Paul scored the opening goal of the game on the power play at the 4:00 mark of the first period, giving the Royals a 1-0 lead. Gustavus outshot Bethel 17-7 in the second period, yet the Royals notched a pair of goals at the 3:34 and 10:57 marks of the frame to go up 3-0. Matt Schugel cut the lead to 3-1 with a goal 1:25 into the third period on an assist from Tim LaBombard. Bethel capped the game with an empty-netter in the final minute of play.
Josh Swartout suffered the loss in nets for the Gusties, allowing three goals and making 17 saves. He is now 2-2-1 between the pipes for Gustavus this season. Bethel goaltender Zac Bush got the win in a 24 save effort. Gustavus outshot Bethel 25-21 in the game, yet was 0-4 on the power play.
The Gusties will finish the weekend series with Bethel on Saturday night at Don Roberts Ice Rink in St. Peter, Minn. at 7:05 p.m.