The Minot United boys hockey team took over sole possession of first place in the West Region standings with its 4-2 victory over Bottineau/Rugby on Saturday, Dec. 13. The game was originally slated for Tuesday, Dec. 9, but was postponed due to snow.

Minot United’s Blake Haaland scored a pair of goals, including the eventual game-winner at 6:52 of the third period for the team’s fifth straight win. The win gives Minot United 12 points in the West Region standings, moving them ahead of Bismarck Legacy, which it had entered the day tied atop the top with nine points.

The Braves scored first on a goal from Gavin Bartsch, converting on one of just three shots in the period as they took a 1-0 lead into the first intermission.

Minot United netted the only two goals in the second, the first off the stick of Tate Haugenoe 2:22 into the frame. Haaland put Minot United in front for the first time 36 seconds later on the power play.

Bottineau/Rugby pulled even 37 seconds into the third period before Haaland netted his second power-play goal of the afternoon, taking advantage of a slashing penalty assessed to Braves skater Cooper Beckman.

Oliver Thompson sealed the victory, adding the team’s fourth goal with 48 seconds remaining.

Maxim Hall picked up the win in net for Minot United, stopping 15 of 17 shots. Rowan Cheshire finished with 23 saves for the Braves.

Minot United hosts Dickinson on Tuesday, Dec. 16, at Maysa Arena at 7:30 p.m.