2025 Ms. Hockey winner off to strong start with

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.