Erie, Pa. – The Mercyhurst Lakers Women's Ice Hockey team dropped a tightly contested 3-1 decision to the University of New Hampshire on Tuesday evening at the Mercyhurst Ice Center. Despite a strong defensive effort and a late goal by Sofia Nuutinen, the Lakers were unable to overcome the Wildcats' efficient special teams play. 

How It Happened: 

New Hampshire struck first early in the opening period when Kira Juodikis scored unassisted at 2:57, giving the Wildcats a 1-0 lead. The Lakers managed to create several scoring chances but were held at bay by New Hampshire's defense and goaltender Sedona Blair. 

The Wildcats doubled their lead in the second period on a power-play goal by Alyson Hush at 11:34, with assists from Kira Juodikis and Callista Printz. Despite a strong push by Mercyhurst, the Lakers entered the final period trailing 2-0. 

In the third, Mercyhurst broke through at 13:10, as Sofia Nuutinen scored her third goal of the season off a setup from Makayla Javier. However, New Hampshire sealed the game with an empty-net goal by Marina Alvarez at 19:56, assisted by Chavonne Truter. 

Notable Performances: 

• Sofia Nuutinen scored her third goal of the season, with Makayla Javier providing the assist. 

• Goaltender Magdalena Luggin made 24 saves, keeping the Lakers in the game. 

• Emmi Mourujärvi and Sydney Pedersen each blocked three shots a piece. 

Up Next: 

The Lakers and Wildcats will return to action tomorrow afternoon for game two of the series.  Puck drop is set for 2 PM.