MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Kyle Rau’s goal in overtime lifted Minnesota to a 2-1 win over Bemidji State on Friday night in the first game of a best-of-three playoff series in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association.

Rau netted the game-winner for the Golden Gophers (25-7-5) at 13:18 of the extra period. Rau also assisted on Ben Marshall’s goal that gave Minnesota a 1-0 lead at 6:56 of the second period.

Bemidji State (6-21-8) tied the game on a goal by Brance Orban with 38 seconds left in the third period.

Bemidji State goalie Andrew Walsh kept it close by stopping 50 shots, including 10 in overtime.

Minnesota goalie Adam Wilcox had an easier night in net, making 17 saves, with seven of those in overtime.

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