The Mankato East/Loyola Cougars tried to dig themselves out of a three-goal hole, but the Winona Winhawks held on for a 3-1 victory.

A goal by Luke Hemker put Winona up 3-0 in the third period, but Mankato East/Loyola pulled to within two on Carter Johnson's tally 11:25 into the third period.

Hemker had a great game for the Winhawks, netting two goals.

Winona got an offensive boost from its blueliners, who contributed two goals during the game.

Winona also got points from Nick Rowe, who also racked up one goal and one assist. Other players who recorded assists for Winona were Jacob Kelly, Alex Johnson, and Nick Arnold, who contributed one a piece.

The the Cougars penalty box was a popular destination as the team totaled five minors and two majors for 30 minutes in penalty time. Mankato East/Loyola had been averaging 12.0 minutes in penalties per game.

The Winhawks' Andrew Yeske stopped 20 shots out of the 21 that he faced. Winona totaled 13 minutes in penalty time with four minors and one major and went 2-for-7 on the power play. Aaron Kroeber made 26 saves for the Cougars on 29 shots. Mankato East/Loyola registered one goal on five power play opportunities.