Black Hawks Fall to Fargo, 2-1

Two goals in quick succession by the Fargo Force Friday tripped up the Waterloo Black Hawks and allowed the visitors to leave Young Arena with a 2-1 victory following the first half of a two-game weekend set between the teams.

The Black Hawks cashed in on one of three first period power plays.  At 11:27, Brandon Montour sent the puck to the front of the net from just inside the blue line.  Blake Winiecki was there to find it, and on a second attempt, slipped his chance past Brendan Jensen.

The second period passed without any scoring, but the Force began to build momentum, which broke through in the form of a goal by Teemu Kivihalme at 5:52 of the third.  Kivihalme was set up to score from the left circle by Tyler Hynes’ pass from below the icing line.  Hynes himself struck next, scoring a goal in transition at 9:44, eluding Waterloo defenders to send the puck under the crossbar.

Jensen was steadily busy in the Fargo net throughout the contest, making 40 saves.  He was aided by tenacious Force shot-blocking, especially in Waterloo power play situations.  Cal Petersen made 24 saves in the loss.

The Hawks retain first place in the United States Hockey League and the Western Conference, but wins by the Indiana Ice and Omaha Lancers Friday reduce Waterloo’s margin.  The Ice drew to within two points of the Hawks in the overall standings, while Omaha climbed within four in the west.

Waterloo and Fargo get together for an instant rematch on Saturday.  Lucky fans in attendance for the 7:05 contest will have the opportunity to take home a t-shirt and other goodies from Waterloo Golf Headquarters.  For tickets, call the Domino’s Black Hawks Box Office at (319) 291-7680 or visit waterlooblackhawks.com.