Mavericks 5, Bulldogs 4 (OT)

Freddy's three thoughts of the game ...

1. Fantastic freshmen: Minnesota State got three goals from rookies in a fast, physical game. Zeb Knutson's first collegiate goal will be quite memorable, as it won the game at 2:23 of overtime. C.J. Franklin's cannon shot was a beauty, as he jumped off the bench, raced into the zone and one-timed a perfect set-up pass from Matt Leitner for the game's first goal. Then there was Brad McClure, who scored his third goal in as many games, a nasty shot upstairs from close range after being set up by Jean-Paul LaFontaine. "If you ask them, I think they'd tell you they've come in expecting to make an impact as freshmen," coach Mike Hastings said.

2. Another crazy second period: Last Saturday, the Mavericks scored four second-period goals to erase a 2-0 deficit and take charge of an eventual win over Nebraska Omaha. Friday's game featured a combined five goals and eight penalties. The Mavericks led 4-1 after scoring twice during Kyle Osterberg's 5-minute major for checking from behind. But the Bulldogs surged back with two goals 2:01 apart late in the period. UMD's first goal in the period was a short-hander at the start of the major penalty that made it a 2-1 game. The period reeked of early season issues for two good teams — and perhaps for the officiating crew.

3. Back in the game: Junior goaltender Stephon Williams got his first start since Feb. 15 and stopped 34 shots, including three in overtime and 12 of 13 in the third period. The game-tying goal in the third appeared to get redirected and perhaps knuckled on him a bit. Indeed, Karson Kuhlman was credited for the goal after Tony Cameranesi shot from the wall. Williams played big at times, stopping a pair of close-range shots by sniper Alex Iafallo in the first period and making a key save on Jared Thomas at the left post in overtime. Does this mean Williams starts on Saturday in Mankato? I'm guessing that decision has yet to be made.

Deep thought: Minnesota State has scored 18 goals in its last four games against UMD while allowing 12.

Read my Free Press game story here. Read Matt Wellens' gamer from the Duluth News Tribune here.

Around the WCHA: Bowling Green 5, Alabama Huntsville 0 ... Ferris State 3, St. Lawrence 2 (OT) ... Notre Dame 5, Lake Superior State 4 ... Northern Michigan 2, Wisconsin 0 ... Penn State 3, Alaska Anchorage 3 (OT, UAA wins shootout) ... Alaska 4, Air Force 3