WINONA, Minn. - On Friday night, the Saint Mary's men's hockey team (7-6-1) welcomed Northland College (1-15) for their Senior Night. The teams went into overtime, where an off-speed shot ultimately sealed the victory for the Jacks, giving them their first win of the season, 2-1.
 
The first period ended scoreless, despite the Cardinals dominating possession and offensive opportunities. Saint Mary's managed to control faceoffs, winning the majority, and attempted numerous shots on goal, with Cooper Smyl and Laudon Poellinger each taking multiple shots, though none resulted in a goal. Northland's goalie, Andrew Yocum, was active in net, making several saves to keep Saint Mary's from scoring. Northland committed three penalties, giving Saint Mary's multiple power-play opportunities, but they were unable to convert any into scoring, and the period concluded with both teams locked at 0-0.
 
Saint Mary's began the second period with a strong offensive push, as Poellinger and Cole Mickel each registered wide shots within the first minute. At 17:54, Nathan Solis opened the scoring for the Cardinals with a goal assisted by Colin Tushie, marking Solis's eighth goal of the season. Northland also faced challenges on offense, with AJ Ruskowski made key saves and Liam McInnis blocked several shots to maintain Saint Mary's 1-0 lead at the end of the period.
 
Northland tied the game with a goal at 18:05 in the third period to bring the Jacks to life. Neither team could collect the last goal to win the game, sending it past regulation. 
 
Just 30 seconds into the overtime period, the Jacks scored a power-play goal, securing a 2-1 victory in sudden death. Despite outshooting Northland 52-13, Saint Mary's managed only one goal.
 
The Cardinals will wrap up non-conference play tomorrow at home, facing UW-River Falls in a 7 p.m. game.