Cambridge, Massachusetts – The Harvard women’s ice hockey team lost 1-0 to Northeastern University in the semifinals of the 2024 Dunkin’ Women’s Beanpot. Goalkeeper and team captain Alex Perichwas outstanding in the defensive showdown against the Huskies, recording 39 saves and a season-high save percentage of .974.
The Crimson played stellar defense against the Huskies, blocking an astounding 30 shots compared to Northeastern's 11. Mia Biotti He blocked a game-high five shots and held the Crimson to a one-shot game through 60 minutes.
background:
- Perich led the first five minutes strongly, making four saves to hold Northeastern to no points. The Prior Lake, Minnesota, native finished with 11 saves in the first period.
- Northeastern University capitalized on a power play with 8 minutes, 18 seconds left in the first period and put the ball in the net for the opening goal of the Beanpot semifinal.
- Harvard's best scoring chance of the first period came late in the game, when the McDonald sisters forced Northeastern keeper Gwyneth Phillips to save consecutive close-range shots.
- The Crimson defense showed their strength in the first period, blocking eight shots to the Huskies' three.
- The second period saw Harvard establish an offensive rhythm, with the defense Jenna McDonald And moving forward Gabi Davidson Adams Both players had shots on goal in the first five minutes of the second period.
- Forward with 9 minutes and 45 seconds remaining in the second period Hannah Chulsky Northeastern forced a turnover near the blue line, but Phillips made a save on a breakaway shot by Chowske to keep the Huskies ahead.
- Harvard nearly tied the score in the final minute of the second period. 3-on-1 forwards Sophie Ensley He took a shot that was deflected by Phillips.
- In 40 minutes of play, Peric made 25 saves and recorded a .962 save percentage.
- Both teams' defenses played strong in the third period, denying clear offensive opportunities.
- The Huskies withstood the Crimson's relentless attack until the end and held a 1-0 lead until the final buzzer.
Harvard highlights:
- Perich was the standout player for the Crimson in the Beanpot semifinals, recording a game-high 39 saves and posting a season-best save percentage of .974.
- The Crimson blocked 30 shots against the Huskies, their most in a single game this year.
- Viotti led Harvard in blocks with five, one shy of his season high.
next:
Harvard and Boston College will meet in a Beanpot consolation game at TD Garden on Tuesday, January 23. Fans can watch the game live on NESN.
Prior to the Beanpot consolation game, the Crimson will travel north to Troy, NY to take on RPI on Friday, January 19th at 6pm. Fans can stream ECAC hockey action on ESPN+.
