Box Score After clinging to a 3-1 lead heading into the second intermission, the University of Minnesota Duluth decided it was time to flex a little offensive muscle Monday night. And that's exactly what the Bulldogs did as they struck for four goals (on six shots) in the opening 4:18 of the third period and skated out of AMSOIL Arena with a 7-1 exhibition game win over Lakehead University of Thunder Bay, Ontario.

Duluth native Dominic Toninato scored twice while fellow rookie forward Kyle Osterberg had a goal and two assists for the Bulldogs, who outshot the Thunderwoles 19-2 in the final 20 minutes of play and 53-23 on the night. Sophomore defenseman Andy Welinski also turned in a three- point night and was one of 12 Bulldogs who appeared on the scoring sheet.

"I guess I've always been a little underestimated by some people because of my height and size," said Osterberg. "I'm here to show people that I can play and make an impact on this team."

UMD's three goaltenders -- senior Aaron Crandall (14 saves), junior Alex Fons (six) and sophomore Matt McNeely (two) -- each played one period and helped backstop the Bulldogs to their 11th victory in 11 lifetime meetings with Lakehead University. The Timberwolves, whose lone goal came on the power play 6:18 into the second period (which cut the Bulldog lead at the time to 2-1) did hold the Bulldogs scoreless on all six of their opportunities with the man advantage.

The Bulldogs, now 32-3-2 all-time against Canadian universities, will host former Western Collegiate Hockey Association rival Michigan Tech University this Friday and Saturday in the 2013-14 season openers for both clubs.

"The Canadians are always more physical and are generally older," said Osterberg. " I don't think it's going to be much different during the regular season, but teams will play with a little  more finesse and we'll be going up against some of the top players in the country."