STEVENS POINT, WIS.--The Hamline University women's hockey team defeated the UW-Stevens Point 5-1 on Thursday in Stevens Point.

The Pipers improve to 8-2, their best start to a season since 2018-19. while the Pointers fall to 7-6-1.

Hamline 5, UW-Stevens Point 1

The first period saw the Pipers take an early lead courtesy of Abigail Chamernick at 9:45 with an unassisted effort, her fourth goal of the season. Shortly after, Cailey McLaughlin doubled their lead to 2-0 at 16:51, assisted by Morgan Wohlers and Emme Nelson, which stood as the game-winning goal. Despite the Pointers' efforts, including a power play opportunity following a holding penalty on Iyla Ryskamp, they were unable to convert, leaving the Pipers with a 2-0 advantage at the end of the period.

The second period began with Hamline's Nikki Olund winning the faceoff against Courtney Leising. The Pipers dominated the circle throughout the period, winning a series of faceoffs, including those involving Emme Nelson and Iyla Ryskamp. Despite numerous attempts by both teams, many shots were either wide or blocked, with Ashlyn Abrahamson finally breaking the deadlock at 16:51 with a goal assisted by Annika Lindgren, increasing their advantage to 3-0.

The third period began with Hamline maintaining possession, evidenced by several faceoffs won and shots attempted by Averie Martin and Haley Eder-Zdechlik. Despite a string of saved or missed shots, UW-Stevens Point's Molly Pohlkamp managed to score at 4:30, assisted by Soile Doyle and Katie Stanius, narrowing the gap to 3-1. The Pipers responded with a surge, as Annabel Mehta scored at 9:24, assisted by Rachel Robbins, and Cailey McLaughlin followed quickly with another goal at 9:45, extending their lead to 5-1. 

Cailey McLaughlin led the Pipers with two goals, including the game-winner, and a plus-minus rating of +3. Ashlyn Abrahamson also had a strong showing, registering a goal and an assist for two points along with a team-high plus-minus of +3. Abigail Chamernick contributed a goal, while Annabel Mehta added another. Iyla Ryskamp excelled in faceoffs, winning all seven attempts for a perfect 100% percentage. Nikki Olund also demonstrated faceoff strength, securing a 93% win rate with 15 victories out of 16 attempts.

Molly Pohlkamp stood out for the Pointers, leading the team with one goal. Soile Doyle contributed an assist, adding to the team's offense with one point. Katie Stanius also recorded an assist, tying with Doyle in assists for the team. On the defensive side, Grace Torma led the team with three blocked shots, providing significant resistance against the opposing offense. In goal, Anne Beck made a notable impact with 31 saves, despite the team facing a challenging match resulting in a loss.

Kendra Nordick made 12 saves in net for the Pipers, while Anne Beck stopped 31 shots for the Pointers. Hamline out shot UW-Stevens Point 36-13.

The Pipers will travel to No. 11 UW-Eau Claire on Monday, January 6 for a 7 p.m. game.