PITTSBURGH, PA – The Manhattanville University women's ice hockey team grabbed its first victory of the season over Chatham (1-6, 0-3 UCHC) on Friday afternoon at Alpha Ice Complex, taking down the Cougars by a final of 2-1. The Valiants improve to 1-4 (1-2 UCHC) with the decision.
The Valiants and the Cougars came out even to start with the home team hitting the scoreboard first, carrying the 1-0 lead into intermission. Manhattanville's 19 shots were to no avail, with all nine pucks fired on the cage being shut down by Chatham's keeper, Samantha Brophy.
One minute into the second period, Danika Aubin and the Valiants broke through, scoring her first of the season on a power play assisted by Erin Flaherty and Jada Mackinnon. The defensive line shut down the 17 shots on goal from Chatham in the period, fronted by two blocks apiece from Flaherty and Aubin. Olivia Cimorelli recorded five saves in the second period of play.
The away team came out in the final period hot, firing off nine total shots, with seven straight across the first five minutes. Cimorelli held strong in goal, turning away the two pucks that stayed on target to keep the game even at 1-1.
Colby Cantor recorded her first goal of the season with the game-winner, assisted by Catrina Chinetti and Aubin, a tick over 12 minutes into the final period of regulation. Protecting the lead for the first time, the defensive unit held off the Cougars' attacking efforts as Cimorelli recorded five more saves and Flaherty two more blocks to secure the conference victory.
Game Notes
- The Vals lead the all-time series 17-3, dating back to Feb 26, 2000, and have taken the last five consecutive matchups.
- Mackinnon recorded 14 faceoff victories.
- Flaherty put herself in front of the puck for six blocks.
- Manhattanville had opportunities in six power plays, recording 20 shots, not allowing any shots from the home team, and converting for one goal.
- Chatham grabbed two power plays of its own, only firing off four shots.
Up Next - The Valiants and Cougars face off for game two tomorrow, Nov 22, at 3 PM.