Bellevue survived a late comeback from rival Mercer Island to win 9-8 behind two goals from Justin Angelel, Hank Bethke, Augie Fratt and Eric Haehl, and regain its place atop the conference standings with just one game to play in the regular season.

Cole Cansler went the distance in goal for the Wolverines, recording seven saves in the victory.

The loss was the first of the year to an in-state foe for Mercer Island, which like fellow once-beaten Issaquah has two games remaining before the playoffs.

Bellevue meets Mount Si May 16 in its final playoff tuneup.

Mercer Island’s defense was only the fourth from Washington to keep the Wolverines below 10 goals, and was still unable to leave with a win. JOE LIVARCHIK, MERCER ISLAND REPORTER

The Wolverines and Islanders played another nip-and-tuck game last week. JOE LIVARCHIK, MERCER ISLAND REPORTER