SAINT PAUL, MINN.--The Hamline University women's hockey team secured a 2-1 OT victory over Aurora at TRIA Rink on Saturday afternoon.

The Pipers improve to 10-3-0, while the Spartans fall to 2-10-2.

Hamline 2, Aurora 1 OT

The first period ended scoreless, with Hamline applying significant offensive pressure. Haley Eder-Zdechlik and Ashlyn Abrahamson led the Pipers with multiple shots on goal, but Aurora's goaltender, Zoie Campbell, consistently made saves to keep the game tied. Despite Hamline's persistent attacks, including a shot that hit the pipe from Abigail Chamernick at 19:08, the team was unable to capitalize on their opportunities. Aurora's defense also held strong with key saves and blocked shots, maintaining the 0-0 scoreline.

The second period began with Hamline winning the initial faceoff and taking an early lead at 1:26 with a goal by Calie Peterson, assisted by Ashlyn Abrahamson and Nikki Olund. Aurora responded with a tally by Liza Davies at 7:17, tying the game 1-1. Both teams struggled with accuracy as numerous shots were either missed or blocked, with significant goaltending efforts from Kendra Nordick for Hamline and Zoie Campbell for Aurora. The Pipers had two power-play opportunities due to penalties on Aurora's Peyton Elliott and Ellie Visser, but they were unable to capitalize on these chances, keeping the score tied 1-1 at the end of the period.

The third period began with Hamline gaining control, winning multiple faceoffs early on, such as Emme Nelson's win against Cara Cook on the opening draw. The Pipers maintained offensive pressure with several shots on goal, including attempts by Ashley Grabau and Averie Martin, but all were saved by Aurora's Zoie Campbell. At 10:18, Hamline's Lily Svajgl was penalized for tripping, allowing the Spartans a power play opportunity, though they were unable to capitalize as Kendra Nordick made key saves. Despite both teams' efforts, including numerous missed shots and faceoffs, neither team scored, ending regulation with a 0-0 score.

The overtime period began with a faceoff between Peyton Elliott of Aurora and Iyla Ryskamp of Hamline, which was won by Ryskamp. Shortly after, Cara Cook from Aurora attempted a shot at 00:59, but it was saved by Kendra Nordick. A subsequent faceoff at 1:00 saw Nikki Olund securing possession for the Pipers. At 2:00, Averie Martin scored the game-winning goal for Hamline, marking her first goal of the season and securing a 2-1 victory over Aurora.

Averie Martin stood out for Hamline, having scored one goal and it being a game-winner. Additionally, Calie Peterson also netted one goal, contributing to the team's offensive efforts. Nikki Olund recorded an impressive faceoff win percentage of 65%, showcasing her skill in gaining possession.  Lastly, Emme Nelson led the team with a faceoff win percentage of 72%, further emphasizing the team's strength in faceoff situations. Nordick stopped 19 shots in net for the Pipers.

Liza Davies contributed significantly with one goal and a faceoff win percentage of 66, winning two out of three faceoffs. Jillian Bilsborough also made an impact with one assist and three shots on goal. Additionally, Zoie Campbell showed strong performance in goal, making 39 saves in her appearance.

The Pipers out shot the Spartans 41-20.

Hamline will host St. Olaf at TRIA RInk on Thursday, January 16 at 6 p.m.