MANKATO, Minn. ---  Fifth-ranked Minnesota (19-5-1, 13-5-1 WCHA) downed Minnesota State after a late third-period goal to ride a 4-3 victory Friday evening over Minnesota State (10-16-0, 4-15-0 WCHA) at Ridder Arena.

The Mavericks found themselves down three goals in the second period to then notch three unanswered goals to silence Ridder Arena.  

Senior Jamie Nelson notched her 14th and 15th on the season within the first seven minutes of the final period giving MSU life. At the 7:05 mark of the period, freshman Jenessa Gazdik sent a shot over the shoulder of Minnesota's Lucy Morgan for her third tally on the season and first power-play marker of her collegiate career.

The Gophers would answer back on the power-play at with eight minutes remaining in regulation to shut down the Mavericks' comeback to secure their 19th victory of the season.

"We are proud of our third period tonight," head coach John Harrington stated. "Our team showed fight and determination facing a big hole to the fifth-ranked team in the nation. That is something we can build off and be able to come into tomorrow's game with confidence."

Minnesota State is back in action tomorrow as they rematch No. 5 Minnesota with action starting at 2 p.m. at the Mayo Clinic HSEC.