NORTHFIELD, MINN.--The Hamline University women's hockey team fell to St. Olaf 2-1 on the road Saturday afternoon.

The Pipers fall to 10-5, 5-3 MIAC, while the Oles improve to 6-8-1, 3-4-1 MIAC.

St. Olaf 2, Hamline 1

The first period saw a defensive battle, ending with a scoreless tie. Hamline's Emme Nelson was involved in two penalties, at 2:38 and 16:16, resulting in power plays for St. Olaf, but they were unable to capitalize. Hamline's offense was active, with numerous shots on goal, but St. Olaf's goalie, Hannah Fritz, successfully made several saves to keep the puck out of the net. St. Olaf's defensive effort was marked by several blocked shots, notably by Hannah Metric and MaKenna Beaver, maintaining the scoreless tie through the first period.

The second period began with a faceoff between Hamline's Emme Nelson and St. Olaf's Solvei Berg-Messerole, with the Pipers controlling the puck. Early in the period, both teams struggled to capitalize on their opportunities, with multiple shots, including Bella LaMere for St. Olaf and Ashlyn Abrahamson for Hamline, missing or being saved. The Pipers broke the deadlock at 5:33 with a goal by Haley Eder-Zdechlik, assisted by Annabel Mehta and Erika Broten, marking Eder-Zdechlik's eighth tally of the season. Following the goal, the Pipers kept the pressure on with several shots on goal, but St. Olaf's goalkeeper, Hannah Fritz, successfully thwarted their efforts, maintaining the score at 1-0 in favor of Hamline by the end of the period.

In the third period, the Oles took control with a short-handed goal by Solvei Berg-Messerole at 6:22, assisted by Reese Swanson and Nora McConnell. St. Olaf extended their lead with another goal by Kate Carfagnini at 13:04, which turned out to be the game-winning goal. Despite multiple attempts by Hamline, including a power play and several missed shots, they were unable to score in the third period. The Oles successfully held off Hamline's offensive efforts, with Hannah Fritz making numerous saves to secure a 2-1 victory for the home team.

Nikki Olund is a key player in faceoffs, with a win percentage of 75%, leading the team in this category. Emme Nelson is also notable in faceoffs, winning 14-of-20 for a 70% success rate. Haley Eder-Zdechlik stands out in scoring, having netted the team's only goal. Annabel Mehta and Erika Broten have each contributed an assist, showing their ability to create scoring opportunities. Kendra Nordick made 14 saves in net.

Kate Carfagnini is a key contributor with one goal, which was a game-winner. Solvei Berg-Messerole has also performed well offensively, tallying one goal and adding an assist, while taking three shots. Hannah Fritz has been solid in goal with 39 saves and only one goal against in her appearance. Grace Lankas leads defensively with a plus-minus of one and has recorded a blocked shot. Lastly, Andi Huselid has shown effectiveness in face-offs, winning 50 percent of her attempts. These players have been instrumental in their respective roles for the team.

The Pipers will make the short trek to Augsburg on Friday, January 24 for a 7 p.m. game.