MADISON, Wis. — No. 1 Wisconsin defeated Minnesota State 4-0 on Saturday, at the LaBahn Arena. The Badgers capitalized on a power-play opportunity in the first period, contributing to their two-goal lead early in the game. 

The Mavericks began the first period with Hailey Hansen as the starting goaltender. The period saw the Badgers apply early pressure, leading to a series of blocked shots and saves by Hansen. Despite strong defensive efforts from Kianna Roeske and Lauren Zawoyski, the Badgers capitalized on a power play opportunity, with Hall scoring the first goal of the game, assisted by Harvey and Šapovalivová.

The Mavericks responded with offensive attempts from Zawoyski and Mercury Bischoff, though they were unable to break through. The Badgers extended their lead with a second goal by Šapovalivová, assisted by Enright. As the period closed, the Mavericks continued to create chances but ended the first period trailing 2-0.

The Badgers maintained control early in the second period, testing Hansen with several attempts, but the Maverick defense held firm. Following a penalty against Zawoyski, the Badgers went on the power play but failed to capitalize, with Hansen continuing to make crucial saves and the penalty kill unit clearing the threat.

The Mavericks seized a power play opportunity after a Badgers' penalty but could not penetrate their opponent's defense. Despite generating several shots, Ava McNaughton kept the puck out of the net for the Badgers. The Badgers extended their lead to 3-0 with an even-strength goal by Enright at 8:32, assisted by Venusio.

The period concluded with both teams trading penalties and the Mavericks making defensive stops. Despite efforts to cut into the deficit, the Mavericks ended the second period trailing 3-0.

At 6:05 of of the third period Makayla Moran hit the pipe, the team was unable to find the back of the net. Hansen made crucial saves to keep the deficit manageable, but the Badgers' offensive persistence resulted in a goal by Gorbatenko at 9:33, increasing their lead.

The Mavericks continued to push forward with shots from Roeske and Kamryn Van Batavia, but the Badgers' defense held firm. A late power play opportunity arose for the Mavericks following an elbowing penalty on Jones. However, the team couldn't capitalize on the advantage, and the frame closed with the Badgers maintaining a 4-0 lead.

Hailey Hansen ended the day saving 44 out of the 48 shots she faced. 

The Mavericks hold a record of 5-4-0 overall and 1-4-0 in conference play.

The Mavericks are back in action tomorrow as they face the Badgers for game two at LaBahn Arena at 2 p.m.