SAINT PAUL, MINN.--The Hamline University women's hockey team defeated Bethel (MN) 4-1 at the National Sports Center in Blaine, Minnesota on Friday night.

The Pipers improve to 5-1-0, 3-0-0 MIAC, their best start to a season since 2018-19. Bethel falls to 2-2-1, 1-2-0 MIAC.

Hamline 4, Bethel 1

Hamline opened the scoring at 7:16 of the first period with an even-strength goal by Nikki Olund, assisted by Morgan Wohlers and Jaime Hort that made the score 1-0. The Royals responded at 17:11 of the first period with a shorthanded tally by Kallie Abrahamson, leveling the score at 1-1. The game remained tied until the third period when Brooke Klemz netted the game-winning goal for the Pipers at 7:26, assisted by Annika Lindgren to make the score 2-1. The Pipers extended their lead with goals from Ashlyn Abrahamson at 11:11 and Iyla Ryskamp at 12:11, making the final score 4-1. The visitors controlled the faceoff circle, winning 64%, and outshot Bethel 21-16.

Iyla Ryskamp was notable with one goal scored, and excelled in faceoffs with a 70% win rate for the Pipers. Ashlyn Abrahamson also scored once, contributing to the team's offensive efforts. Nikki Olund made a significant impact with one goal and a strong performance in faceoffs, maintaining a 63% win rate. Brooke Klemz scored the game-winning goal and had a 60% faceoff win percentage. Nancy Benedict led with a plus-minus rating of +3, indicating her effective presence on the ice.

Kallie Abrahamson stood out by scoring Bethel's only goal. Goalie Anna Hanson made 17 saves in her appearance, despite allowing four goals, showcasing her defensive capabilities in net. Kendra Nordick made 15 saves in net for the Pipers, who outshot the Royals 21-16.

Hamline will look to sweep Bethel at TRIA Rink tomorrow, Saturday, November 23 at 4 p.m.