ERIE, Pa. – The Mercyhurst Women's Hockey team hosted RIT this evening. Both teams entered the game with just one point between them in the AHA standings. Regina Metzler netted the first and only goal in the first period. Magdalena Luggin, the reigning AHA goaltender of the week, made 24 saves and recorded her second shutout of the season in a 1-0 win. This was the Laker's fifth consecutive win and Michael Sisti's 598th win. 
 
Mercyhurst (8-6-1, 5-2-0 AHA) opened the first period with strong control, winning the initial faceoff and creating early shot opportunities. RIT (7-8-0, 3-4-0 AHA) made a few blocks and saves early in the game to establish a defensive presence. At 16:27 Metzler found the top left corner of the net to give the Lakers an early lead. This was one was assisted by Sofia Nuutinen and Nayeon Kim. The Lakers maintained momentum, securing another faceoff following the goal. RIT had a late power play, but Luggin made a few crucial saves to contribute to the penalty kill. The period closed with the Lakers up 1-0.
 
The Lakers began the second period by asserting offensive pressure with early attempts from Sofia Ljung and Sophie McKinley, although both were unable to convert. Despite Avery Bryk's penalty, Mercyhurst's penalty kill unit successfully thwarted the Tiger's power play opportunities, with multiple saves from Luggin again. Midway through the period, the Lakers gained a power play advantage following a high-sticking penalty on RIT. The team generated several chances, including shots from Nuutinen and Maja Alenius, but were unable to capitalize. Luggin continued to stop shots as the period concluded with the Lakers still ahead by one. 
 
Mercyhurst maintained their defensive discipline in the final frame, securing possession with a faceoff win by Metzler. Despite consistent offensive pressure, including multiple shots by Abby Poitras and Madison Nelson, the team could not find the back of the net. The Lakers effectively managed two power plays during the period but were unable to score on their advantage. Luggin and the defensive unit held off the Tigers as the game concluded 1-0. 
 
Game two will take place tomorrow, Nov. 15 with a 1 p.m. puck drop.