MANKATO, Minn. — Minnesota State defeated the University of Minnesota, 4–1, with a dominant performance at home. This victory marked a significant achievement, as it was the first time Minnesota State swept the Gophers since 2006. The Mavericks' offense was highlighted by a hat trick from Mercury Bischoff, including a game-winning power-play goal, which solidified the victory. The Mavericks maintained control throughout, outshooting the Gophers 25–28 and capitalizing on special teams play. Hailey Hansen made 27 saves, securing the team's lead. The Gophers scored their lone goal in the first period through a power play but failed to capitalize further.

The opening period began with Minnesota State securing an early lead when Bischoff scored on a power play at 13:20, assisted by Kamryn Van Batavia and Lilie Ramirez. This goal marked a strong start for the Mavericks, as they capitalized on the man advantage to take the lead. 

Shortly after, the Gophers responded with a power-play goal of their own at 14:39, as Josefin Bouveng found the back of the net, assisted by Abbey Murphy and Chloe Primerano. The period closed with the score tied 1–1, setting up an evenly matched contest moving into the next period.

Minnesota State capitalized early in the second period, taking advantage of a power play to apply pressure, though they did not score during the advantage. The tide turned at 11:53 when Bischoff found the net with an even-strength goal, assisted by Van Batavia, pushing the home team ahead. 

The momentum continued for Minnesota State as Whitney Tuttle extended the lead with another even-strength goal, assisted by Ayla Puppe and Sophie Stramel, at 14:01. The Mavericks closed the period leading 3–1, maintaining control and keeping the Gophers at bay.

The Mavericks began the third period capitalizing on a series of faceoffs, demonstrating control early on. Despite several missed shots, Minnesota State maintained pressure, setting the stage for a scoring opportunity. 

A pivotal moment came at 1:48 when Bischoff secured an empty-net goal, assisted by Lauren Zawoyski, completing a hat trick and solidifying the team's lead. This goal extended the Mavericks' advantage to 4–1.

Minnesota State concluded the period with a strong defensive stance, preventing any further scoring from the opponent. The game ended with the Mavericks securing a 4–1 victory at home.

Bischoff tallied three goals, including a game-winning and power-play goal, to lead the Mavericks. Tuttle added a goal, contributing to the team's offensive efforts. Van Batavia recorded two assists, demonstrating playmaking ability. Hailey Hansen made 27 saves, providing a strong presence in goal.

Looking ahead, Minnesota State will host Dartmouth at Mayo Clinic HSEC in Mankato, Minnesota, on Friday, Nov. 28 at 2 p.m. CT.