Air Force hockey’s first home game of 2026 wasn’t one for the history books. 

Defending Atlantic Hockey America champion and current conference leader Bentley routed Air Force from start to finish with a 5-1 win. 

The Air Force Falcons raced out to a fast start last week, but it was the reverse on Friday. 

Bentley built a 2-0 lead in the opening 10 minutes. 

Defenseman Garrett Horsager opened the scoring at 6:32 of the first period, and forward Michael Mesic doubled Bentley’s advantage at the 9:50 mark. 

Bentley forward Chase Davis scored the lone goal of the middle frame at the 7:14 mark. 

Air Force hasn’t been shut out all season and the Falcons kept that streak alive in the third period. Sophomore defenseman Jake Peterson scored his fourth goal of the season from the point at 3:35. 

Instead of allowing Air Force to build momentum off the Peterson tally, Bentley responded and expanded its lead. The visitors scored twice on the power play to close out the game. Forwards Stephen Castagna and Jake Black netted the goals on the man advantage at 4:41 and 7:49, respectively. 

“This game, to me this game wasn’t about tactics, it was about getting to your game first and imposing your will, and they did that,” Air Force coach Frank Serratore said in a radio interview. “They’re good. There’s a reason why they’re in first place.”

Air Force junior goalie Dominik Wasik made 22 saves as Air Force outshot Bentley 39-27. 

Bentley and Air Force will conclude the series on Saturday at 5 p.m.