College Men's Hockey: Gophers beat Niagara

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Jake Hansen had a goal and two assists to lead Minnesota to a 5-1 win over Niagara on Friday and a berth in the championship game at the Mariucci Classic men's college hockey tournament.

The Gophers (15-5-1), who last won the title in 2008, will play for their 13th championship today.

Hansen was one of nine Minnesota players with points Friday. Justin Holl, Nick Larson, Erik Haula and Zach Budish also had goals for the Gophers, who improved to 3-0-0 all-time against the Purple Eagles.

Kent Patterson made 20 saves, with a high of seven in each of the first two periods.

The Gophers scored twice in each of the first two periods for a 4-0 lead.

Niagara (5-6-6) had its six-game unbeaten string snapped. Tyler Matthews had the Purple Eagles' only goal early in the third period.

Niagara goalie Cody Campbell made 38 saves.