Minneapolis, Minn. --- The Minnesota State Icers traveled to Ridder Arena in Minneapolis, Minn. to take the on the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers in WCHA action. After an early 2-1 lead, the Mavericks gave up three straight scores resulting in a 4-2 final.

In an eventful first period, the Mavericks tallied two goals to the Gophers one giving them the early advantage. Each squad killed off two penalties during the first period.

At the 11:12 mark, MSU senior forward Ashley Young (South St. Paul, Minn.) tallied her seventh goal of the season off of a rebound on Gopher goaltender’s stick-side. Young was assisted by sophomore forward Emmi Leinonen (Valkeakoski, Finland).

The Mavericks lead didn’t last long. Only 13 seconds later the Gopher tallied the equalizer scored by senior forward Chelsey Jones and assisted by junior Laura May and rookie Becky Kortum.

Late in the first period, Minnesota State continued to attack the net and it paid off when rookie forward Lauren Smith earned her fifth goal of the season off of her own rebound. Smith was assisted by senior captain Kala Buganski (Andover, Minn.) and junior blueliner Amy Udvig (New Brighton, Minn.)

Early in the second a couple of Maverick penalties lead to a five on three opportunity for the Gophers. Minnesota capitalized on the two skater advantage when junior and Gopher points leader Emily West tallied goal number 16 of the season on assists from senior Brittany Francis and sophomore defenseman Anne Schleper.

The Gophers increased their lead to 4-2 after finishing the second period with a couple even strength goals scored by freshman Gophers Sam Downey and Becky Kortum and that’s how the game would finish.

The two teams finished equal in the shots on goal department, each earning 24. Sophomore goaltender Alli Altmann (Eagan, Minn.) finished the contest with 20 saves, eight of them coming on power play chances.

Minnesota State (4-16-5, 2-14-5-3 WCHA) will wrap up their series with the Golden Gophers tomorrow afternoon at Ridder Arena with the puck dropping at 4:07 p.m.

To view game stats click HERE.

-30-