Bismarck shut out the Albert Lea Thunder 7-0 Saturday at City Arena to split a weekend series in Albert Lea.

The Bobcats (32-10-8) took a 2-0 lead into the third period and erupted for five goals in the final period to blow out the Thunder.

Gavin Hartzog scored twice in the third while Bryce Schmitt, Ben Danford and Trent Johnson added goals for Bismarck.

The Bobcats outshot the Thunder (12-31-5) 39-32 and goalie Ryan Faragher earned his fourth shutout victory for Bismarck.

Albert Lea remained three points back of North Iowa for fourth place in the Central Division after the Outlaws dropped their 21st consecutive game.

The Thunder face North Iowa Friday in Mason City.

Bismarck 7, Albert Lea 0

Bismarck 2 0 5 — 7

Albert Lea 0 0 0 — 0