URGENT UPDATE: The No. 13 Minnesota State women’s hockey team faced a stunning 2-1 defeat against Bemidji State during the US Hockey Hall of Fame Museum Women’s Faceoff Classic on February 10, 2024. The Mavericks opened the scoring with a goal from Taylor Otremba at 9:17 of the first period, assisted by Zoe Lopez and Mercury Bischoff, igniting hopes for a victory.
However, the momentum shifted quickly when Bemidji State, currently holding a record of 6-19-3, 3-18-1, capitalized on a power play later in the first period, tying the game 1-1. Despite generating several scoring opportunities in the second period, including a power play following a boarding penalty on Bemidji State, Minnesota State, with a record of 12-14-2, 6-14-2, could not convert.
“We had our chances, but we need to find a way to score some goals,” said associate head coach Jeff Giesen after the game. The Mavericks entered the third period tied, showing resilience by killing off a penalty against them, but the tide turned at 12:03 of the final frame when Bemidji State scored the go-ahead goal.
In a desperate attempt to equalize, Minnesota State pulled goalie Hailey Hansen late in the game to add an extra attacker. Despite their efforts and mounting pressure, the Mavericks could not find the back of the net, sealing their fate with a 2-1 loss.
This defeat stings for Minnesota State as they prepare to face St. Cloud State on the road next Friday, marking a critical point in their season. Fans and players alike are left to ponder what could have been in this tightly contested matchup. Stay tuned for updates as the Mavericks aim to bounce back from this heart-wrenching loss.
