TEXARKANA — The Central Texas Blackhawks tied it at four early in the third period, but the Texarkana Bandits answered with four minutes remaining to seal a 5-4 win on Friday night at Four State Arena.

The loss moved the Blackhawks (15-21-5 for 34 points in the North American Hockey League South Division) 11 points out of a playoff spot behind Texarkana (22-18-1 for 45 points).

The Blackhawks were down 4-3 at the start of the third period, but Alekcei McAvoy wasted no time as he tied it up with his second goal of the night. The Bandits struck back and got the puck past Tyler Chestnut for the win.

Chestnut saved 26 of 31 attempts in the loss.

Texarkana’s Greg Barrett picked up the win in goal, saving 24 of 28 shots.

Josh Joles and Josh Frider had the Blackhawks’ other two goals. McAvoy added an assist.

The Blackhawks continue their 10-game road swing on Friday as they face Wichita Falls (17-18-5 for 39 points) at 7:05 p.m.