PLYMOUTH, Mich. — The U.S. National Under-18 hockey team defeated Bowling Green State University 5-1 in an exhibition Monday at USA Hockey Arena.

The national team scored two goals in the first two minutes of the second period to open things up against the Falcons, following up with two more goals in the third.

Luke Hughes scored twice for the national team, at 1:27 in the second period on a power play to claim a 2-1 lead, and at 14:47 of the third period for the game’s final goal.

Dylan Duke put the national team on the scoreboard at 12:03 of the first period. Bowling Green’s Cameron Wright answered at 16:37, assisted by Max Johnson.

Justin Janicke put the national team up 3-1 with a goal 18 seconds after Hughes’ go-ahead goal.

Rutger McGroarty had the national team’s first goal of the third period, at the 7:42 mark.

Bowling Green had a 28-27 edge in shots. Brett Rich had 18 saves in two periods of play, allowing three goals, while Zack Rose had seven saves and two goals allowed.

Gibson Homer had all 27 saves for the national team.

Bowling Green (12-2) returns home Friday for a weekend series against Northern Michigan, with games at 7:07 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

First Published January 12, 2021, 2:40 a.m.