In a highly anticipated matchup, the top-ranked Wisconsin women’s hockey team suffered its first defeat of the season against the No. 3 Minnesota team. The game took place at LaBahn Arena, where Minnesota triumphed with a score of 5-1.
Game Overview
The Badgers initially took control, scoring the opening goal. Junior forward Cassie Hall netted her 50th career goal just seven minutes into the game, with assists from Lacey Eden and Caroline Harvey. Hall has currently scored 11 goals in 11 games this season.
Defensive Strugles
The first period showcased strong puck possession from Wisconsin. However, the second period turned into a defensive battle, leading to a 1-1 tie by its conclusion.
Turning Points
- The Gophers evened the score with just one minute remaining in the second period.
- Following this, they established a lead with a goal at the beginning of the third period.
- Three additional goals from Minnesota sealed their victory, pushing the final score to 5-1.
Statistics
Despite the loss, Wisconsin had a higher shot count, outshooting Minnesota 41-38. However, the defeat ended the Badgers’ impressive 23-game winning streak and a 37-game unbeaten streak that dated back to November 2024, both of which set program records.
Coach’s Insights
Head Coach Mark Johnson commented on the team’s performance, noting that the response after the setback was lacking. He emphasized the importance of learning from this loss and moving forward quickly. “The first 10 minutes tomorrow is gonna indicate what we want to do,” he stated, highlighting the upcoming rematch.
Looking Ahead
The Badgers will have a chance to rebound as they face the Gophers again tomorrow at 2:00 p.m. The match will be available for streaming on Big Ten Plus. With a strong record of 10-1-0, Wisconsin aims to regain its momentum in this critical series.
