ERIE, Pa. – The Mercyhurst women's hockey team hosted No. 8/9 UConn after the two sides drew 1-1 last night. Both sides came out firing early as UConn led 4-2 after two periods. The Lakers found a third in the final frame but were unable to equalize as they fell 4-3.
 
The first period began with Mercyhurst (3-6-1, 0-2-0 AHA) gaining early momentum by winning the initial faceoff and maintaining pressure. Regina Metzler dominated the faceoff circle, contributing significantly to the Laker's control of the puck. Nayeon Kim and Jessica Ciarrocchi each had attempts on goal early on. UConn (5-2-1, 0-0-0 Hockey East) capitalized on their opportunities as they scored at the 8:03 mark. The Lakers responded by applying pressure during a power-play opportunity but were unable to convert. The Huskies responded to their penalty kill by extending their lead. Metzler revitalized the Laker's efforts with an goal just under the last minute of the period, reducing the deficit to 2-1. Sofia Ljung and Julia Schalin assisted the goal as the period ended 2-1.
 
The second period began with a strong showing from Mercyhurst, as Sophie McKinley scored a goal off of a pass from Metzler at 14:27 to level the score. Shortly after, UConn responded with a at 13:02, reclaiming the lead at 3-2. The Laker's defense, anchored by goaltender Magdalena Luggin, faced persistent pressure, but managed to hold the line during several key moments. However, UConn eventually capitalized on a power-play opportunity, extending their lead to 4-2. The period closed with the Lakers trailing by two goals.
 
The third period began with Metzler winning the faceoff, setting an aggressive tone on home ice. Ciarrocchi delivered an equalizing goal at 14:25, her second of the season to reduce the deficit yet again. This one was assisted by Ljung and Lexi Stanat. Throughout the period, the Lakers maintained pressure with multiple shots on goal, but UConn's goaltender, Tia Chan, remained resolute. Despite a strategic timeout and an empty-net strategy by the Lakers in the final minutes, the Huskies took their first ever win at the Mercyhurst Ice Center 4-3. 
 
The Lakers return to Erie next Friday, Oct. 31 as they host Delaware to resume AHA play.