Syracuse, N.Y. – The Mercyhurst Lakers Women's Ice Hockey team emerged victorious in a hard-fought 2-1 win over Syracuse on Friday night at the Tennity Ice Pavilion. The Lakers relied on timely scoring and strong goaltending to secure the win, improving their record to 10-11-1 on the season and 5-4-0 in Atlantic Hockey America play. 

How It Happened: 

The Lakers took the lead early in the first period when Chantal Ste-Croix found the back of the net at 5:42. Assisted by Sydney Pedersen and Vanessa Upson, Ste-Croix's goal gave Mercyhurst a 1-0 lead, which they held through the opening frame. 

Mercyhurst extended their lead to 2-0 midway through the second period on the power play. Sofia Nuutinen netted the eventual game-winning goal at 12:09, with assists from Sofia Ljung and Makayla Javier. 

Syracuse responded in the third period, cutting the deficit to 2-1 at 11:47 with a goal from Nea Tervonen, assisted by Celia Wiegand. Despite Syracuse's late surge, Mercyhurst's defense held strong to secure the win. 

Notable Performances: 

• Sofia Nuutinen scored the game-winning goal, her fifth of the season. 

• Chantal Ste-Croix lit the lamp for the fourth time this season. 

• Jorden Mattison made 22 saves in net, earning her seventh win of the season. 

• Vanessa Upson recorded her 15th assist and won eight faceoffs. 

Up Next: 

Mercyhurst and Syracuse will conclude their two-game series on Saturday afternoon at the Tennity Ice Pavilion. Puck drop is scheduled for 3 PM.