Columbus, OH. – The Mercyhurst Lakers Women's Ice Hockey team continues their non-conference schedule as they travel to Columbus on Tuesday to take on the defending national champions, the Ohio State Buckeyes. Ohio State, ranked No. 2 in the nation, is looking to continue their dominant start to the season, while Mercyhurst aims to pull off an upset against one of the top programs in the country. 

History 

The last time the Lakers and Buckeyes played was back in 2018 in Columbus.  The Buckeyes swept the series against the Lakers 2-0.  The Lakers' last win over the Buckeyes came in 2017 when they won 6-4 in Erie. 

Laker Outlook 

Mercyhurst comes into the series with a 2-5-1 overall record, including a 2-1-1 mark at home. The Lakers are led offensively by Thea Johansson, who has netted 4 goals in 8 games, and Vanessa Upson, who has contributed 5 assists while tallying 30 shots on goal. Sofia Nuutinen has been a key playmaker as well, adding 1 goal and 3 assists. 

Despite a slow start offensively, averaging 1.25 goals per game, the Lakers have been strong on defense. Mercyhurst has allowed only 2.00 goals per game, supported by stellar goaltending from Magdalena Luggin, who boasts a .958 save percentage and a 1.68 goals-against average in three starts. Jorden Mattison has also been solid, with a .927 save percentage and a 1.97 goals-against average over five starts. 

Luggin earned AHA Rookie of the Week honors for her 43 save win over #6 Cornell.  The win was the first of Luggin's career. 

A Look at Ohio State 

Ohio State comes into the matchup with a strong 6-2-2 record, including a 4-2-2 mark in conference play. The Buckeyes have been dominant on the road, boasting an impressive 5-0-1 record away from home. Offensively, Ohio State is averaging 3.6 goals per game, led by Jenna Buglioni (7 goals, 5 assists) and Jocelyn Amos (6 goals, 5 assists). Jordyn Petrie has also been a key contributor with 7 goals and 2 assists, providing scoring depth for the Buckeyes. 

Defensively, Ohio State has been effective in limiting opponents, allowing just 2.1 goals per game and holding teams to an average of 18.9 shots per game. Goaltender Amanda Thiele has been solid in net, posting a 1.81 goals against average and a .894 save percentage in seven appearances. Backup goalie Hailey MacLeod has also seen time in net, with a 2.47 goals against average and a .882 save percentage. 

What to Watch For 

• Mercyhurst's offensive play: The Lakers will rely on Thea Johansson and Vanessa Upson to break through Ohio State's stingy defense. Finding ways to generate quality scoring chances will be key. 

• Goaltending battle: Jorden Mattison will need to be at her best against Ohio State's relentless offense, while Raygan Kirk looks to maintain her dominance in net for the Buckeyes. 

• Special teams showdown: Ohio State's power play has been a major factor in their success. Mercyhurst's penalty kill unit, which has shown resilience, will need to limit Ohio State's opportunities with the man advantage. 

• Buckeyes' balanced attack: Ohio State has multiple scoring threats throughout their lineup, including Jenna Buglioni and former Penn State Nittany Lion Kiara Zanon, making it difficult for opponents to focus on just one line. 

Next Up 

The Lakers will return to action on November 1st and 2nd when they travel to Lindenwood for the AHA Conference opener.