Box Score DE PERE, Wis. (SabreAthletics.Com) – The Marian University women's hockey team took on the St. Norbert Green Knights for the second year in-a-row in the NCHA Quarterfinals, today. The Sabres put up a tough fight, but were unable to recover from an early onslaught of goals by St. Norbert as they ended up falling 4-2 to finish their season.
It was all St. Norbert (16-6-4, 10-4-4 NCHA) in the first period as they were in constant control of the puck. They outshot the Sabres (6-18-2, 4-13-1 NCHA) 20-6 in the period, while scoring three times. Myranda Hayes started the scoring four minutes into the contest to give the Green Knights an early lead. A rally of two goals in three minutes, finished off with a power play goal by Megan Crandell, put the Sabres in a tough position early on.
A roughing call on St. Norbert's top goal scorer, Ali Parker, helped put the Sabres back into contention midway through the second period. Marian's, Sarah Bier, took quick advantage of the power play, scoring 30 seconds in, to decrease the Green Knight lead to two. It was the third time Bier scored on a power play opportunity this season, while she earned her eighth goal of the year.
An interference call on Marian's, Amanda Waigand, six minutes later, returned the favor to St. Norbert. Jillian Kosteck hooked up with Crandell and Lauren Roethlisberger, just over a minute into the power play, to regain the Green Knights a three-goal lead.
The Sabres picked up their offensive attack in the third period as they were able to get off 14 shots. Amanda Waigand helped gain some ground for the Sabres, nine minutes into the period with her 21st goal of the season, but they were unable to score again. The Sabres were outshot 35-27 on the day.
Amanda Alexander gave a solid effort at goal for the Sabres, making 31 saves. Leigh Grall made 25 saves for the Green Knights on the other side.
Marian had seven seniors, Waigand, Lauren Zachwieja, Brittany Syms, Kaitlyn Johnson, Kristin Skubic, Nina Laurie and Alexander, compete in their final game as a Sabre. They each played a vital part in the Sabres' best season in team history and will be missed in the upcoming season.
The Sabres have plenty of talent returning next season and will look to further the program's success under head coach Jamie Kivi.
