The Bedford Bulldogs lost a 2-0 lead, watched a teammate leave the ice on a stretcher and still had two minutes of hockey to play.

That’s not an enviable task, especially for a team without a senior on the roster. Then again, Bedford has proven it isn’t a typical first-year program.

The Bulldogs bounced back in the overtime session after losing Luke McDonough, salvaging a 2-2 tie against Monadnock on Saturday, Jan. 17, and showing the maturity that has led the group to a 5-0-1 start.

McDonough was checked into the boards while trying to corral a tipped puck, and the back of his head hit the glass. The game was delayed, an ambulance was called, and after McDonough was taken off the ice, the Bulldogs attacked for the final 1:58, nearly winning.

McDonough had a followup doctor’s appoinment on Jan. 20, is feeling healthy and could be back on the ice soon by Bedford’s next game, according to Head Coach Matt Guerard.

“It’s tough to hold back emotions and not do something foolish,” said Bedford assistant coach Jody Pedro, who was behind the bench during the game in the absence Guerard. “I was really impressed with the way they bounced back and dominated the final 1:58 of overtime.”

Although the final period showcased the team’s surprising maturity, there were plenty of examples of inexperience throughout the game; Bedford was called for 12 penalties. “I don’t mind penalties, but not boarding penalties,” said Pedro.

“We weren’t able to get any consistency and keep our lines intact because we were in the (penalty) box so much. We can’t keep doing that.”

Despite the high number of infractions, the group’s power play unit held its ground throughout, and goaltender Benjamin Firman continued his impressive work in net for Bedford.

Firman allowed three goals in a win against Souhegan earlier in the season, but he’s given up just four goals in the team’s four other contests.

“He’s quick, and he’s disciplined, and he really understands the angles,” said Pedro about the junior goalie. “Really the only thing he lacks is size, but that will come.”

Bedford sits atop the standings in Division III hockey.

According to Pedro, it’s the improvement of the underclassmen that leaves the coaching staff looking forward to the remainder of the season.

“The young players have really improved and showed progress,” said Pedro. “I see us – as the year goes – becoming much more disciplined and becoming a strong force to be reckoned with.”