SAINT PETER, Minn. - The Saint Mary's men's hockey team (7-5-1) wrapped up their weekend conference series against Gustavus Adolphus (10-5) with a 5-1 loss on Saturday in Saint Peter, Minnesota, completing a sweep for the Gusties.
 
The Gusties seized control early and held onto their lead the entire game.
 
The Cardinals struggled in the first period against Gustavus, falling behind early after the Gusties took a 1-0 lead at 18:10. Despite outshooting Gustavus, with Colin Tushie and Blake Arneson leading the charge, Saint Mary's couldn't convert, even after winning several faceoffs. Gustavus then extended their advantage to 2-0 at 2:59 with a power-play goal from Hunter Newhouse, following a holding penalty on Liam McInnis.
 
The second period opened with Saint Mary's taking advantage of a power play opportunity at 17:45 but was unable to score. At 2:00, Gabe Potyk scored for the Cardinals, assisted by Tushie and Cole Mickel, marking Potyk's seventh goal of the season. Despite the offensive push, Gustavus Adolphus responded with two goals in the period, ending the period with a 4-1 lead.
 
Despite several scoring attempts, including a shot off the pipe by Ryan Berglund at 10:22, Saint Mary's was unable to score. The only goal of the period came from Gustavus Adolphus, who extended their lead to 5-1, sealing the game with the final score.
 
The Cardinals will return to action on Friday, January 17th, at home, facing Northland College. The game will also serve as Senior Night, honoring the dedicated seniors of the men's hockey team.