FOND DU LAC, Wis. (SabreAthletics.com) – For the second night in a row, the top-ranked team in the country came out on top as visiting St. Norbert College came from behind to beat the host Marian University men's hockey team, 4-1, and spoil the Sabres' home opener at Blue Line Family Ice Center, this evening, Nov. 1.

Marian (0-2, 0-2 NCHA) took an early lead as Hunter Stewart scored the game's first goal at the 5:40 mark of the first period. The lead held until late in the second period when the Green Knights (2-0, 2-0 NCHA) tied it with 4:32 left. Three third-period goals, including two empty-netters in the final minute, then propelled SNC to the win.

Stewart registered his first collegiate goal 5:40 into the first period when he redirected a Brodie Jamieson shot toward the goal and past two-time All-American goalie, David Jacobson. Thomas Nosella was also credited with an assist on the goal.

Jacobson's counterpart, Mike Gudmandson, had an impressive performance in his first collegiate start. The freshman made 37 saves and kept the Sabres in it the game until the two empty net goals put it out of reach.

In the second period, SNC's Noah Nelson tied the at the 15:28 mark on an assist from Marian Fiala.

It wasn't until the 11:44 mark in the third period that the tie was broken on Blake Thompson's power play goal. It took only 18 seconds for St. Norbert to take advantage of a Brian Berger tripping minor.

Then, desperate to find that tying goal, the Sabres pulled Gudmandson with 1:19 left. However, the Green Knights regained possession of the puck Chris Rial was able to collect the first empty net goal with 1:00 remaining.

Cullen Bradshaw provided the dagger with the final empty net score at the 19:30 mark.

The Sabres will return to action next Saturday, Nov. 7, when they face Lawrence in the first leg of the Battle for 41 trophy. Start time is set for 7 p.m.