Badgers Dominate Mavericks 3-1 to Achieve 2025’s First Sweeping Victory

MADISON, Wis. – Three distinct Badgers found the back of the net, aiding the leading Wisconsin women’s hockey squad in securing a 3-1 triumph over the Minnesota State Mavericks at LaBahn Arena on Saturday.

Lacey Eden and Casey O’Brien recorded their second goals of the weekend. Sophomore Cassie Hall contributed to the scoreboard while Laila Edwards earned two points for the Badgers (22-1-1, 16-1-1 WCHA) through two assists. 

The Badgers exhibited constant pressure during the opening periods, with Hall striking first, netting a goal with 2:47 remaining in the first period. Edwards caused a turnover in the neutral zone and passed the puck to Kirsten Simms. Simms fired a shot, and Hall capitalized on the rebound, putting the Badgers ahead 1-0 as they headed into the first intermission. 

Wisconsin maintained its offensive push, outshooting Minnesota State (10-11-1, 4-11-1 WCHA) 23-4 in the second period, yet they couldn’t capitalize further on their chances. 

Eden tallied her second goal of the weekend with an assist from Potter, extending the lead to 2-0 with 16:30 left in the frame.

Eden once again showcased her skills with a no-look pass, setting up O’Brien, who launched a one-timer that found the net. The Mavericks managed to score once, cutting the lead as the game concluded with a 3-1 victory for Wisconsin.

Ava McNaughton blocked 17 of 18 shots, securing her NCAA-leading 21st victory of the season. 

Game Highlights

• Wisconsin outshot the Mavericks 53-18. The Badgers have outshot their adversaries in 17 of their 24 matchups this season.
• The Badgers have been averaging one power-play goal per game over the past six games, including two during the weekend series against the Mavericks.
• Wisconsin has restricted their opponents to one or fewer goals in 17 of their 24 contests this season.

Insights from the Rink 

UW Head Coach Mark Johnson

On achieving a rhythm in the match:
“I stated to the team a moment ago that during this phase of the season, things can be challenging. What can we manage? We can manage our work ethic and our energy. In the initial two periods, we generated a plethora of opportunities and were rewarded, but it’s essential to persist.”

On the effectiveness of the Badgers’ third line:

“They inject energy, so perhaps when the game isn’t unfolding in our favor, they can step in and revitalize the momentum through a forechecking effort. Woz (Sarah Wozniewicz) is an exceptional skater, and Claire (Enright) possesses a profound hockey IQ.”

Junior Claire Enright 

Reflecting on the third line’s effectiveness: 

“I believe we performed excellently. We are a cohesive unit, and it’s encouraging to see us striving hard. We complement each other very well. We are all close friends, which undoubtedly aids in fostering that bond.”

Lacey Eden 

On lessons from the weekend:

“That team over there [in Minnesota State] is very good; they compete intensely and play a mature style of hockey. It’s certainly beneficial to engage in a few games where we may not be receiving all the lucky breaks or a match where the goalie is on top of their game, as it pushes us to elevate our performance.”

Looking Ahead: The Badgers are set to travel to the Land of 10,000 Lakes to face St. Thomas in Mendota Heights, Minnesota. The puck drop on Friday is scheduled for 7 p.m., with Saturday’s finale commencing at 3 p.m. Both matches will be broadcast live on Big Ten Plus.