Kathlyn Hotynski

The Women’s hockey team finished up a sweep of Finlandia University (Mich.) Saturday night, but it was not enough, as Lake Forest College (Ill.) defeated UW-Stevens Point to clinch the final playoff spot in the NCHA.

The Blugolds defeated Finlandia 3-2 Friday and 4-2 Saturday, improving their record to 12-10-2 overall and 6-7-2 in the NCHA.

Sophomore Margaret Campbell got the ‘Golds started early on a power-play goal and was assisted by senior Allie Campbell.

The Lions retaliated, also scoring on a power play. The goal was made by senior Jana Riutta. The first period ended with the two teams tied 1-1.

The Lions scored again with 8:40 left to play in the second period, but this would be their only lead of the night as sophomore Lauren Havard scored the tying goal with 4:09 left to play in the second. Senior Karen Hebert added a goal with 38 seconds remaining, allowing the ‘Golds to pull ahead for good.

“I think we played great as a team, we have great chemistry,” senior Amber Stevenson said.

Junior Kelly Ivey agreed.

“We can read each other and feed off each other. We can stop shots and produce goals,” Ivey said.

Margaret Campbell would add one more goal for the ‘Golds on a power play during the third period. The ‘Golds were two for five on power plays, and outshot the Lions 45-17.

“We played well, we dominated much of the game and we played in their end for much of the time,” said coach Mike Collins. “We got some key goals at some opportune times.”

It was an emotional night for the Blugolds, as six of their seniors were honored before the game.

“It’s sad, my college career is done, and after Wednesday I’m done playing hockey,” Stevenson said.

The ‘Golds will take on Hamline University (Minn.) in their last game of the season Wednesday. The team is hoping to finish the season on a high note.

“We’re doing everything we need to do, we just need to go in with our heads held high,” said Ivey.

The team has not yet faced Hamline this year.

“They are a very formidable opponent,” Collins said. “We need to show up and play as best we can.”