ERIE, Pa. — Today marked the beginning of Mercyhurst women's hockey's 27th league campaign. They gave #5/6 UMD everything they had, scoring three goals on 18 shots while Magdelena Luggin made 47 saves. However, the Bulldogs prevailed in overtime as they defeated the Lakers 4-3. 
 
The opening period saw the Lakers and Bulldogs in a deadlock, as neither team able to find the back of the net. Jessica Ciarrocchi and Julia Perjus were active on faceoffs, with Perjus winning multiple crucial draws in the early minutes. Luggin made several key saves, particularly during a power play for the Bulldogs keeping the score level at 0-0 by the conclusion of the period.
 
The second period began with a flurry of action as the Lakers quickly responded to an early goal by UMD with Berlin Lolacher equalizing at 6:17, marking her first career goal. This goal was assisted by Nayeon Kim and Sofia Nuutinen. Mercyhurst then capitalized on their momentum, with Avery Bryk scoring her first career goal at 13:42. Regina Metzler and Jade Maisonneuve added the assists. Ciarrocchi extended the lead just five seconds later, with a helper from Lolacher winning the faceoff. Despite a late goal by the Bulldogs at 18:35, the Lakers retained a 3-2 lead heading into the final frame. 
 
The third period began with Perjus winning the initial faceoff. Despite a series of shots by Maisonneuve and others early in the period, the Lakers' defense was put under heavy pressure. Luggin was pivotal again, making multiple saves in rapid concession. However, UMD eventually capitalized on a power play with an extra attacker, leveling the game at 3-3 with just over two minutes left. Despite a few late chances from both sides, the game would be decided in overtime. 
 
The overtime frame began with a faceoff won by the Bulldogs, setting the stage for a tense battle. Abby Poitras fired a shot early on, but the attempt was saved. As the period unfolded, Payten Evans made a crucial block on a shot attempt. On the other side of the ice, Luggin made her 47th save of the game as the Lakers tried to find a winner. UMD eventually netted the game winner midway through overtime that lifted them to a 4-3 win. 
 
Game two will take place tomorrow, Sept. 20 at 1:00 p.m.