Gophers Defeat Top-Ranked Wisconsin in Madison Showdown

The University of Minnesota’s women’s hockey team achieved a remarkable feat by defeating the top-ranked Wisconsin Badgers 5-1 at LaBahn Arena. This victory marks Wisconsin’s first loss of the season and cements Minnesota’s status as a formidable contender.

Game Overview: Gophers Triumph in Madison

The Gophers, currently ranked No. 3, initiated their comeback in the third period after trailing 1-0. Wisconsin opened the scoring just 6:42 into the first period with a goal by Cassie Hall.

Despite a missed power play opportunity earlier in the second period, Minnesota leveled the game late in the frame. Abbey Murphy delivered a precise pass to Josefin Bouveng, who scored with just 1:10 remaining, tying the match 1-1.

Third Period Surge

The third period proved pivotal for the Gophers. Just 2:10 in, freshman Sienna D’Alessandro scored her first career goal by converting a rebound, pushing Minnesota ahead 2-1. Shortly after, at the 4:10 mark, Sydney Morrow scored on a one-on-zero breakaway, utilizing a slick backhand-forehand move to increase the lead to 3-1.

Bouveng, continuing her scoring streak, netted another goal at 8:32 into the period, demonstrating her skill with a power-play shot from a sharp angle. Additionally, Murphy scored her 15th goal of the season just 29 seconds later, finalizing the score at 5-1 and securing the victory for the Gophers.

Game Stats and Highlights

• Final Score: Minnesota 5, Wisconsin 1
• Goalies: Hannah Clark (Minnesota) recorded a standout performance, blocking all 23 shots in the second period.
• Notable performances:
  • Sienna D’Alessandro: First career goal
  • Abbey Murphy: 100th career assist
  • Josefin Bouveng: Multi-goal game and point streak of 10 games
• Season Records:
  • Minnesota: 10-1-0 (6-1-0 WCHA)
  • Wisconsin: 10-1-0 (6-1-0 WCHA)
• Historic win for Minnesota at LaBahn Arena, first since December 3, 2021

Looking Ahead

The Border Battle will continue with Minnesota facing Wisconsin again on Saturday afternoon. The game is scheduled to start at 2:00 p.m. CT, with live coverage available on B1G+.