APPLETON, Wis. â Lawrence University (2-20-0, 2-13-0) fell to the University of Dubuque (3-19-0, 2-13-0), 3-2, in a tightly contested matchup at home.Â
Lawrence began the first period with strong offensive efforts, leading to several shots on goal. Despite missing the net multiple times, the Vikings maintained pressure and controlled possession, winning several faceoffs. The team successfully killed a power play after
Kate Holtz's early penalty, with
Sarah Dobrzynski making key saves.
Later in the period, Lawrence gained a power-play opportunity, but Dubuque's defense held firm, preventing any score. Both teams continued to exchange missed shots and blocked attempts, with neither side finding the back of the net. The first period ended scoreless, with Lawrence keeping the game tight.
Lawrence capitalized on early momentum in the second period with a goal by
Emmerson Berger at 15:50, assisted by Holtz and
Meg Landman, to extend their lead. This was followed by another successful effort from
Ashley Slupe, with an assist from Landman, at 11:37, increasing the advantage to two goals.
Despite pressure from Dubuque, including a late goal from Natalie Meeder with 39 seconds remaining, the Vikings maintained their lead. The period concluded with the home team ahead 2-1, setting the stage for a competitive final period.
The third period began with Lawrence defending against early pressure from Dubuque. Despite several attempts, Meeder broke the tie at 17:45, scoring an unassisted goal to put the Spartans ahead. Lawrence attempted to respond with shots from
Reese Deibert and
Josie Daly, but Dubuque's defense held firm.
Midway through the period, Dubuque extended their lead with a goal from Lauren Jeffery, assisted by Alexandria Simmons, making it 3-2. Lawrence's efforts to level the score included pulling the goalie for an extra skater in the final minutes. However, the Spartans maintained their defensive stance, closing the period and securing the win with a 3-2 score.