No. 3 UND Battles No. 10 Minnesota Duluth in Heated Hockey Rivalry

Fighting Hawks look to extend AmsOil Arena dominance against Bulldogs in two-game series

Apr. 11, 2026 at 7:36am

A fractured, multi-perspective painting in vibrant colors, breaking down a college hockey game into sharp, overlapping geometric planes, representing the dynamic energy and intensity of the UND-Minnesota Duluth rivalry.A cubist interpretation of the heated battle between the UND Fighting Hawks and Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs, capturing the intensity and competitive spirit of their long-standing rivalry.Duluth Today

In a highly anticipated clash, the No. 3 University of North Dakota (UND) Fighting Hawks take on the No. 10 Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs in a thrilling two-game series at the AmsOil Arena. UND enters the matchup with an impressive 2,201-day unbeaten streak at the venue, but the Bulldogs are determined to end that run and pull off an upset.

Why it matters

This heated rivalry between UND and Minnesota Duluth has a long and storied history, with both teams vying for supremacy in the college hockey landscape. The outcome of this series could have significant implications for their respective rankings and playoff positioning as the season reaches its climax.

The details

In the opening game, the tension was palpable as both teams felt each other out in a scoreless first period. However, the Bulldogs struck first in the second period, with Hunter Anderson scoring on a 2-on-1 break. Zam Plante then extended the lead with a power-play goal, making it 2-0 in favor of Minnesota Duluth. Despite a valiant effort, UND was unable to find the breakthrough in the third period, and the game ended with the Bulldogs securing the victory.

  • The last time Minnesota Duluth tasted victory at AmsOil Arena was in January 2020.
  • UND hasn't lost at AmsOil Arena for an astonishing 2,201 days.

The players

University of North Dakota (UND)

The No. 3 ranked college hockey team, known as the Fighting Hawks, with a dominant home record at AmsOil Arena.

Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs

The No. 10 ranked college hockey team, determined to end UND's long unbeaten streak at AmsOil Arena.

Hunter Anderson

A Bulldogs player who scored the opening goal in the second period, giving Minnesota Duluth the lead.

Zam Plante

A Bulldogs player who extended the lead with a power-play goal in the second period.

Jan Špunar

The starting goaltender for UND in the game.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to play with the same intensity and discipline that has made us successful at home. This is a tough opponent, but we're ready for the challenge.”

— Brad Berry, UND Head Coach

“Our team is hungry to prove we can win on the road against a top-ranked opponent. This is a great opportunity to showcase our skills and resilience.”

— Scott Sandelin, Minnesota Duluth Head Coach

What’s next

The two teams will face off again on Saturday, April 12, 2026, at AmsOil Arena, with UND looking to bounce back and extend their home dominance, while Minnesota Duluth aims to secure a series sweep and solidify their position in the rankings.

The takeaway

This highly anticipated matchup between the No. 3 UND Fighting Hawks and the No. 10 Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs showcases the intense rivalry and competitive spirit that exists between these two college hockey powerhouses. The outcome of the series could have significant implications for their respective standings and playoff aspirations, making this a must-watch event for hockey fans.