BLAINE, MINN.–In their final game at the North American Hockey League showcase, the Bismarck Bobcats take a point back home with them in a 2-1 overtime loss to the Minnesota Wilderness on Saturday.
The Bobcats scored first in a meeting of former central division opponents. Vertti Jantunen wristed home a power play goal for the third consecutive day. The native of Finland finishes the showcase with a team-high four goals, accounting for half of the Bobcats’ scoring.
After a scoreless second period, Minnesota came alive in the third. Former Minotauro Adam Johnson tied the game in the opening minute of the period, forcing overtime. In the 3-on-3 session, the Wilderness’ Ren Morque set up Joe Cesario on a crash to the net for the game winner with mere seconds remaining.
The Bobcats showed impressive defense and discipline despite the loss. After a 3-for-5 penalty kill against Fairbanks yesterday, the PK never had to make an appearance. Bismarck’s power play went 1-for-5, ending the showcase at 24% efficiency.
With the showcase complete, the next seven months are nothing but divisional play for the Bismarck Bobcats. The team is on the road again to face the Aberdeen Wings at the Odde Ice Center next Friday and Saturday.