University Park, Pa. – The Mercyhurst Lakers Women's Ice Hockey team pulled off a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory over No. 8 Penn State on Saturday afternoon at Pegula Ice Arena. After trailing heading into the third period, the Lakers rallied with two late goals to secure a statement win in Atlantic Hockey America (AHA) play. 

How It Happened: 

After a scoreless first period, Sofia Nuutinen put Mercyhurst on the board at 2:11 of the second frame, finishing a setup from Vanessa Upson to give the Lakers a 1-0 lead. 

Penn State responded quickly, tying the game on a short-handed goal from Maddy Christian at 6:27. The Nittany Lions then took the lead at 10:53, with Tessa Janecke scoring an unassisted goal to put Penn State ahead 2-1 heading into the final period. 

Mercyhurst wasted no time mounting their comeback in the third. Julia Schalin scored the equalizer at 4:28, capitalizing on a defensive miscue by Penn State. The game remained tied until 11:11, when Vanessa Upson netted the game-winning goal off an assist from Schalin to complete the Lakers' comeback. 

Goaltender Jorden Mattison shut the door in the final minutes, finishing with 33 saves to preserve the upset victory. 

Notable Performances: 

• Vanessa Upson led the way with a goal and an assist, including the game-winner. 

• Julia Schalin recorded a goal and an assist in the comeback effort. 

• Sofia Nuutinen netted her 11th goal of the season to open the scoring. 

• Jorden Mattison made 33 saves, securing a crucial road win. 

Up Next: 

Mercyhurst (17-13-2, 12-5-1 AHA) returns home for a critical conference series against Syracuse next weekend as they continue their push toward the AHA playoffs.