FOND DU LAC, Wis. - Despite dropping a 1-0 heartbreaker to No. 4/7 Adrian, the Marian University women's hockey team (7-18-0, 6-12-0 NCHA) was able to earn a berth into the NCHA Slaats Cup via a Northland loss against St. Norbert.

Junior Lindsey Strainis stood on her head all game long stopping a total of 38 shots with 12 stops in the first period, 14 in the second and another 12 in the third period.  As a result, the Sabres were able to take the nationally-ranked Bulldogs to a scoreless tie late into the third period.  It wasn't until 1:59 remained in regulation before Adrian broke the scoreless tie with a power play goal.

The Sabre penalty kill was able to the lone goal on five opportunities with a man-advantage.  The Marian power play unit was scoreless on three opportunities including a 5-on-3 opportunity in the second period.

With Northland falling to St. Norbert 3-0 in other NCHA action, however, Marian earned a spot in the Slaats Cup for a second straight year and the fourth time in the past five seasons.

Marian travels to No. 4/7 Adrian in a rematch of this past weekend February 23-24 for a two-game series and mini-game, if necessary.  The Sabres dropped both games in the regular season series by just one goal

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