The Maryland Black Bears eyed a 2-0 series lead as they took the ice in the East Division Final of the North American Hockey League’s Robertson Cup Playoffs against the Maine Nordiques. And thanks to an offensive outburst by the Maryland offense, the Black Bears were able to do just that, defeating the Nordiques by the score of 5-1.

Maryland forward Gabriel Westling started the scoring with a powerplay goal, letting a snap shot go from the near point that found its way through the screen to make it 1-0 Black Bears in the first period. In the second period, it was Maryland forward Samuel Stitz redirecting a sharp-angle shot from forward Branden Piku, who shot it from the near side by the goal line, to the top right corner to make it 2-0. Black Bears’ defenseman Sean Kilcullen cashed in seven minutes later, letting a wrist shot go from the far point that found the top right corner for a 3-0 Maryland lead. Maine was able to get a goal back with a redirect goal from forward Oliver Genest to make it 3-1.

The Black Bears, however, were able to finish the job in the third period. Maryland forward Adam Schankula let a wrist shot go from the far side as he entered the offensive zone, and the rebound deflected off a Maine player and into the net for the 4-1 lead. Black Bears forward Dimitry Kebreau finished the scoring off with an empty net goal to make it 5-1 in the final minute, which would hold up to be the final score as Maryland secured a 2-0 lead in the best-of-five series.

The Maryland Black Bears look to close out the series on Friday, May 12, in Lewiston, Maine, with puck drop scheduled for 6:00 pm ET at The Colisee with a win. All games can be streamed on HockeyTV.