COLUMBUS, Ohio – Minnesota State wrapped up its weekend series against No. 2 Ohio State with a 4-1 loss Saturday afternoon at the OSU Ice Rink. The Mavericks now sit at 10-15-1 overall and 4-15-1 in WCHA play.

The contest was scoreless through the first period, with both teams battling for momentum. It wasn't until late in the second period that the Buckeyes broke the deadlock, scoring at the 17-minute mark to take a 1-0 lead into the final frame.

Ohio State extended its advantage with two more goals in the third period before Minnesota State found the back of the net. At the 12-minute mark, Claire Vekich netted her ninth goal of the season, assisted by Alexis Paddington and Jamie Nelson, cutting the deficit to 3-1. The Mavericks continued to push but were unable to close the gap, and the Buckeyes sealed the win with an empty-net goal in the final seconds.

Ohio State held a 39-18 advantage in shots on goal, but Minnesota State goaltender Jessie McPherson delivered a strong performance, posting a .921 save percentage with 35 saves.

"Our team competed hard today.  Really proud of their effort. Jessie was great between the pipes and we had opportunities to score. Claire was able to bury one in the third and we had some pucks around the goal mouth with an extra attacker. We'll learn from this weekend and get ready for next week on the road." said head coach Shari Dickerman

Minnesota State looks to bounce back next weekend as they remain on the road to face Bemidji State in a WCHA matchup.