ST. CLOUD, MINN.--The Hamline University women's hockey team fell to Saint Benedict, 3-2, on Saturday in St. Cloud, Minnesota.

The Pipers fall to 11-8, 6-6 MIAC, while the Bennies improve to 10-6-3, 7-4-1 MIAC.

Hamline 3, Saint Benedict 2

The first period ended scoreless, with both teams demonstrating strong defensive efforts. The Pipers started with an early offensive push, as Erika Broten had a shot blocked just 17 seconds into the game. Saint Benedict's Presley Kraemer received a roughing penalty at 2:55, giving Hamline a power play opportunity, but the team was unable to capitalize. The Bennies had multiple wide shots during their power plays, including attempts by Jenna Timm and Merrill Delich, but Harper Powell stood firm in goal for the Pipers, keeping the game level.

The second period began with a strong offensive push by Hamline, as they managed several early shots, though they were unable to convert them into goals. At 2:48, Saint Benedict's Aurora Opsahl scored the first goal of the game, giving the home team a 1-0 lead. The Pipers responded during a power play at 9:58 with a goal by Iyla Ryskamp, leveling the score at 1-1. Shortly after, Hamline's Brooke Klemz scored an even-strength goal at 12:46, putting the visiting team ahead 2-1, which they maintained through the end of the frame.

The third period began with Hamline taking control of the initial faceoff, and several shots saved by Saint Benedict's goalie, Kate Moffat. At 8:41, Ella Tuccitto scored for the Bennies, assisted by Chloe Lewis and Emily Wendorf, tying the game 2-2. Following this, Hamline faced penalty troubles, with Kylie Huseth and Ashley Grabau both receiving slashing penalties, which eventually led to a power-play goal by Jenna Timm at 10:24, assisted by Presley Kraemer, which put St. Ben's in front 3-2. Despite Hamline's efforts, including pulling their goalie for an extra attacker, they were unable to overcome the one-goal deficit,

Iyla Ryskamp led the Pipers with a power play goal, contributing a total of three shots. Emme Nelson stood out in the face-off circle, winning 61% of her attempts. Brooke Klemz also made a mark by scoring a goal. On the defensive side, Harper Powell recorded 21 saves in goal. Hamline out shot Saint Benedict 32-24.

Jenna Timm stood out with her goal-scoring ability, having scored one which was both a game-winner and on the power play. Peyton LeMieur excelled in face-off performance, maintaining a winning percentage of 66 percent. Mia Lopez contributed defensively with her face-off skills, winning six of her 12 attempts for a 50 percent success rate. Chloe Lewis added playmaking ability, recording one assist and tying for the team lead with three blocks. Finally, Delaney Norman made 30 saves in net for Saint Benedict.

The Pipers will host Concordia (Minn.) for a weekend series that begins on Friday, February 7 at 6 p.m.