The Air Force men's hockey team defeated Mercyhurst 3-1 Friday night in their Atlantic Hockey playoff opener at Cadet Ice Arena.
Forward Willie Reim broke a 1-1 tie in the third period to push the Falcons ahead for good. Marshall Bowery and Brady Tomlak also scored in the game 1 victory.
Goaltender Alex Schilling made 16 saves as AFA will look to close the series Saturday night at 7:05 p.m.
Across town, Colorado College rallied for a 2-0 deficit in the third period before falling to Denver 3-2 in a shootout at Broadmoor World Arena.
Tigers senior standout Chris Wilkie scored both goals for CC, extending his total to 23 on the season.
Both teams will wrap their in-state showdown tomorrow night at Magness Arena. Puck drop is set for 8 p.m.
