BEMIDJI, Minn. – University of Wisconsin defeated the Bemidji State University Women's Hockey team 5-0 Saturday in their Western Collegiate Hockey Association series finale at Sanford Center. The Badgers established an early lead with three goals in the first period. Bemidji State's efforts were stifled by their opponent's defense, which allowed only 12 shots on goal throughout the game.
 
Morgan Smith recorded a faceoff win percentage of 61, leading the team in this category. Katy Comstock posted six blocked shots, contributing defensively. Kaitlin Groess made 33 saves as the starting goalie, facing a challenging offensive attack. Isa Goettl added a helper and took one shot on goal, contributing to the offensive efforts.
 
The first period began with Bemidji State winning the initial faceoff, but their opponents quickly took control, dominating the offensive play. Despite several missed and blocked shots, the Badgers eventually broke through with Adéla Šapovalivová scoring at 4:41, assisted by Caroline Harvey and Vivian Jungels. The visitors continued to apply pressure, resulting in a second goal by Maggie Scannell at 2:56, assisted by Finley McCarthy and Charlotte Pieckenhagen. The period concluded with Cassie Hall extending the lead to 3-0 for the Badgers with just 12 seconds remaining, assisted by Laney Potter. Goaltender Kaitlin Groess made several key saves for Bemidji State, but the Beavers ended the period scoreless.
 
The visitors increased their lead with a goal by Laila Edwards at 15:55 in the second frame, assisted by Caroline Harvey and Kelly Gorbatenko. Bemidji State applied pressure with two power plays, but their opponent's defense and goaltender Ava McNaughton kept them from converting. Katy Comstock was key for Bemidji State on defense, blocking multiple shots, while Kaitlin Groess made crucial saves to limit further damage. The period ended with Bemidji State trailing 4-0, and Lola Macuiba's late penalty put the visitors on the power play as the period concluded.
 
The Badgers extended their lead early in the third period with a power-play goal by Kirsten Simms at 18:35, assisted by Laila Edwards and Lacey Eden, bringing the score to 5-0. Bemidji State's defense worked to block several shots, with Katy Comstock notably stopping attempts from Laney Potter and Lacey Eden. Despite Bemidji State's efforts to capitalize on two power play opportunities, the penalty-kill unit of their opponents effectively neutralized their attempts. Netminder Kaitlin Groess made several key saves for Bemidji State, but the home team was unable to find the back of the net, and the period ended without a change in score.
 
Bemidji State falls to 0-2-0 overall and 0-2-0 in conference play. The Badgers hold a 2-0-0 record both overall and in conference competition.
 
The Beavers remain at home and prepare to host Robert Morris University next weekend at Sanford Center.
 
For more information on the Bemidji State women's hockey program, tickets or schedules, visit BSUBeavers.com, follow the Beavers on X or Instagram, or like them on Facebook.
 
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