COLUMBUS, Ohio — Minnesota State battled throughout a challenging matchup at Ohio State, highlighted by a standout 44-save performance from Hailey Hansen. The Mavericks generated key scoring moments and continued to push offensively, but Ohio State capitalized on early chances to come away with a 5–2 decision.

The first period commenced with Minnesota State facing off against Ohio State, with Hansen in goal. Ohio State quickly took an early lead with a goal by Peschel at 00:13. Minnesota State responded with a strong play as Ava Guillemette scored with assists Lucie Tenenbaum and Whitney Tuttle at 05:51, leveling the score. Despite efforts from Minnesota State, Ohio State regained the lead when Matthews found the net at 14:44. Minnesota State continued to press but closed the period trailing 2–1.

Ohio State extended their lead early in the second period when Svensson scored at the 00:33 mark, assisted by Amos and Swiderski. Minnesota State responded by winning the ensuing faceoff and creating pressure during a power play after a penalty on Swiderski, but they could not convert, keeping the score unchanged during the man advantage. Midway through the period, Svensson struck again for Ohio State with an unassisted goal at 10:19, increasing the deficit. Minnesota State continued to fight back, generating several chances, but were unable to find the back of the net. Ohio State's Vanhanen added another goal at 12:58, assisted by Cimoroni and Swiderski. The period concluded with Minnesota State failing to capitalize on their offensive efforts, leaving the score at 5–1 in favor of Ohio State heading into the final period.

Minnesota State commenced the third period with a focus on strategic play, immediately winning the opening faceoff. Initially, Ohio State applied pressure with multiple shots, but Hansen's consistent saves maintained Minnesota State's defensive stance. A significant turning point occurred when Minnesota State capitalized on a power-play opportunity. Kamryn Van Batavia scored at 14:43, assisted by Lauren Goldsworthy and Tenenbaum, narrowing the gap to 5–2. Minnesota State continued to challenge Ohio State's defense, but the score remained unchanged by the end of the period. The game concluded with Minnesota State trailing 5–2.

Van Batavia scored one goal and converted a power play, finishing with a perfect faceoff percentage. Guillemette added one goal, scoring on her only shot of the game. Hansen recorded 44 saves while allowing five goals in her appearance. Tenenbaum contributed with an assist and blocked four shots.

The Mavericks and Buckeyes face each other for the final game of the series tomorrow at the OSU Ice Rink at 2 p.m.