DEARBORN, Mich. - The University of Michigan-Dearborn men's ice hockey team extended its winning streak to eight games as they defeated Mercyhurst University for the second consecutive night Saturday at the UM-Dearborn Ice Arena.

The Wolverines ran away with a 9-2 victory after scoring four goals in the third period. The No. 11 ranked team is now 12-5-1 on the season.

Kevin Bechard (SO/Trenton, Mich.) got the scoring started early in the first and added another later in the period. Andrew Palushaj (JR/Livonia, Mich.) also scored his first of the night to give the Wolverines a three-goal lead after one. Both players would eventually complete a hat-trick late in the third period.

The Wolverines also received goals from Justin Dunn (FR/Trenton, Mich.), Troy Saunders (SO/Canton, Mich.) and Andrew Speigel. Dunn and Marcus McSweeney (JR/Chandler, Ariz.) each tallied a pair of assists in the win.

Thomas Proudlock (SO/Southgate, Mich.) got the call between the pipes for UM-Dearborn stopping 25 shots to earn his fifth victory of the season.

The Wolverines play host to No. 6 Robert-Morris (Ill.) next weekend as they look to extend their winning streak. Puck drop Friday night is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at the UM-Dearborn Ice Arena.