SAINT PAUL, Minn. — Hamline (20-3-1, 14-2-1) secured a 4-2 victory over Gustavus Adolphus (12-10-2, 9-6-2) on Friday, with the Pipers pulling ahead in the third period. Hamline capitalized on an empty-net goal to solidify the win.
The first period opened with Hamline's
Annika Lindgren facing off against Gustavus Adolphus' Lily Mortenson. Early pressure from the Pipers saw Grace Delmonico and
Ella Rothe testing the Gustavus Adolphus goaltender, Lily Timmons, but their efforts were turned aside. Hamline had an opportunity to capitalize on a power play following a tripping penalty against Bauer Ackerman, but the advantage was short-lived. Both teams exchanged shots, with Hamline's
Kendra Nordick making key saves to keep the score level. Despite several attempts from Hamline, including shots by
Abigail Chamernick and
Maddy Belisle, the period concluded without a goal. The defensive efforts held strong on both sides, and the first period ended in a scoreless tie.
Hamline opened the second period with a crucial momentum shift as Grace Delmonico scored the first goal of the game at 15:40, assisted by
Nina Thorson and
Brooke Klemz, putting Hamline in the lead. Despite strong defensive efforts, Gustavus Adolphus managed to equalize at 7:42 with a goal from Kylie Scott. Gustavus Adolphus then took the lead at 2:00 with an unassisted goal by Grace Schuck. However, Hamline responded late in the period when
Annabel Mehta scored at 00:51, assisted by
Ashlyn Abrahamson, leveling the score. The period concluded with both teams tied at 2–2.
Hamline began the third period with a strong defensive stand, successfully killing a penalty early on to maintain their lead. The momentum shifted decisively when
Nina Thorson scored an even-strength goal at 10:01, assisted by
Kaiya Sandy, pushing Hamline ahead 3-2. As the period progressed, Hamline's defense continued to hold firm, with Nordick making critical saves to preserve the lead.
Brooke Klemz sealed the victory with an empty-net goal at 19:35, assisted again by Sandy. The period concluded with Hamline securing a 4-2 win.
Annabel Mehta scored one goal on two shots and posted a +1 rating. Thorson added a goal and an assist, with her goal being the game-winner. Sandy recorded two assists and finished with a +2 rating. Nordick made 35 saves and allowed two goals in her appearance.
The Pipers will conclude their final regular season series with the Gusties in St. Peter, Minn. with a scheduled puck drop on Saturday at 2 PM.