WINONA, MINN.--The Hamline University women's hockey team defeated Saint Mary's (Minn.) 3-0 in their 2024-25 MIAC opener in Winona on Friday night.

The Pipers improve to 3-1-0, 1-0-0 MIAC, while the Cardinals fall to 2-2-0, 0-1-0 MIAC. Hamline has now won 15 of their last 18 games against Saint Mary's.

Hamline 3, Saint Mary's (Minn.) 0

The first period between the Pipers and Cardinals ended scoreless, with both teams unable to capitalize on their opportunities. Hamline recorded 17 shots, with Abigail Chamernick leading the team with multiple attempts, while Saint Mary's managed eight. Both teams had a power play opportunity but failed to convert, with Hamline's Kendra Nordick and Saint Mary's Celeste Rimstad making several crucial saves to keep the score tied at 0-0.

The second frame saw Hamline increase their lead over Saint Mary's by scoring two goals. Annabel Mehta opened the scoring for the Pipers at 6:18 with an unassisted goal. Erika Broten extended the lead with another goal at 2:19, assisted by Kylie Huseth. Despite Saint Mary's efforts, including several shots by Reese Heitzman, they were unable to score, while Celeste Rimstad made multiple saves for the home team, keeping the score at 2-0 in favor of Hamline by the end of the period.

The Pipers secured a decisive 3-0 victory over Saint Mary's with Nikki Olund scoring an even-strength goal at 10:33 of the third period, assisted by Abigail Chamernick. The period featured a strong defensive effort with multiple blocked shots from both teams, as Hamline turned away six shots, while Saint Mary's blocked five. The Cardinals attempted to capitalize on a power play opportunity following a holding penalty on Hamline's Kylie Huseth but struggled to convert, with several shots either missing or being saved by Piper goaltender Kendra Nordick.

Annabel Mehta stood out for Hamline with a notable performance, scoring a game-winning goal. Erika Broten also made a mark by scoring one goal, complementing a strong defensive effort with three blocked shots. Nikki Olund contributed offensively with one goal and was effective in faceoffs, boasting a 53 percent win rate. Emme Nelson excelled in faceoff situations, leading the team with a 66 percent success rate. Goalie Kendra Nordick made a strong impact between the pipes, recording nine saves in her appearance, maintaining a clean sheet. The Pipers out shot the Cardinals 36-9.

Saint Mary's featured several standout players contributing in various areas. Reese Heitzman led the team in assists, recording two assists from two shots. Sidney Polzin excelled in faceoffs, winning 66% of her attempts, which is the highest on the team. Celia Midtbo also boasted a perfect faceoff win percentage of 100% from her single attempt. Isabelle Norris was active defensively, leading the team with three blocked shots. In goal, Celeste Rimstad made a significant impact with 33 saves in her single game appearance, despite allowing three goals. These players demonstrated noteworthy performances across different facets of the game.

Hamline will look to convert the weekend sweep of Saint Mary's (Minn.) tomorrow,  November 16 at TRIA Rink. Game time is set for 4 p.m.