Syracuse, N.Y. – The Mercyhurst Lakers Women's Ice Hockey team earned a 4-2 victory against Syracuse on Saturday afternoon, improving to 11-11-1 overall and 6-4-0 in Atlantic Hockey America (AHA) play. A strong team effort, highlighted by two goals each from Julia Schalin and Sofia Nuutinen, propelled the Lakers past the Orange. 

How It Happened: 

After a scoreless first period, Mercyhurst opened the scoring early in the second. Julia Schalin found the back of the net at 3:16, assisted by Vanessa Upson and Sofia Nuutinen. The Lakers doubled their lead at 8:08 on the power play when Nuutinen scored her first of the game, with assists from Mary Sweetapple and Makayla Javier. 

Syracuse battled back in the third period, cutting the deficit to 2-1 just 54 seconds in with a goal from Bryn Saarela. The Orange tied the game at 10:28 when Stella Costabile scored, assisted by Nea Tervonen and Jackson Kinsler. 

Mercyhurst responded late in the period, regaining the lead at 17:16 with Schalin's second goal of the game, assisted by Chantal Ste-Croix and Upson. Nuutinen sealed the win with an unassisted empty-net goal at 19:36. 

Notable Performances: 

• Julia Schalin scored twice, including the game-winner, giving her nine goals on the season. 

• Sofia Nuutinen recorded two goals and one assist, extending her point streak to six games. 

• Vanessa Upson added two assists and dominated the faceoff circle, winning 14 of 24 draws.  Upson extended her point streak to four games. 

• Magdalena Luggin made 16 saves in net to secure the victory. 

Special Teams: 

Mercyhurst went 1-for-2 on the power play, while holding Syracuse scoreless on their lone power-play opportunity. 

Up Next: 

The Lakers will return home for a two-game Atlantic Hockey America series against Lindenwood next weekend. Puck drop for Friday's game is set for 3 PM at the Mercyhurst Ice Center.