The University of New Hampshire women’s hockey team battled through a tightly contested matchup against the University of Maine on Friday evening, Dec. 5, but ultimately fell 4–3 in overtime.
UNH entered the night on a two-game winning streak after victories over Brown and Northeastern. Maine countered with steady pressure and timely goals, ultimately claiming the win.
The Wildcats capitalized on early power-play opportunities. At 3:50 of the first period, senior forward Alyson Hush opened the scoring with a rebound goal. Maine answered quickly at 5:40 with a goal from senior captain Danielle Brunette.
UNH regained the lead later in the period when Hush scored her second power-play goal at 11:48, giving the Wildcats a 2–1 lead heading into the second period.
After the game, Hush credited both the team’s momentum and her linemates for her offensive success.
“We went into this game hot after two great wins,” Hush said. “They kept me motivated, and I can also credit my linemates who helped me out on my power plays.”
She added that the group’s mindset kept them competitive throughout the night.
“I think the team was resilient,” she said. “We kept our heads held high and stayed positive.”
Looking ahead, Hush said she’s excited for the remainder of the season and is focused on helping the Wildcats string together wins and maintain a positive trajectory.
During the second period, Maine tightened its play and generated more offensive chances. Brunette struck again at 19:31, tying the game 2–2 and shifting momentum as both teams prepared for the third.
Maine moved ahead 3–2 at 7:25 of the third period when Stephanie Jacob found the back of the net. UNH pressed late, and with just 14 seconds remaining, freshman Nina Rossi scored the Wildcats' third goal to force overtime.
Junior goaltender Noemi Martinez made 21 saves on 25 shots to keep the Wildcats competitive throughout the afternoon.
Despite UNH’s efforts, the extra period ended almost immediately. Just nine seconds into overtime, Maine sophomore Kendall Sundby scored the game-winner, sealing the 4–3 final.
After the loss, head coach Hilary Witt said that while games against Maine always carry the intensity of a rivalry, her team approaches every matchup with the same level of excitement and focus.
Witt highlighted the Wildcats’ offensive energy as a key strength.
“I thought we created a lot of chances,” she said. “We’ve got to put more pucks in the net.”
When asked what she’s looking forward to as the season progresses, Witt emphasized the team’s growth and spirit.
“I just want to keep watching this team develop,” Witt said. “They’re a fun and exciting group.
The fact that we scored with the extra forward at the end just shows that they never give up and they keep on playing.”
UNH met Maine again the following day, Dec. 6, and the teams played to a 2–2 tie, with the Wildcats winning the shootout 2–1 to gain the extra Hockey East point. The Wildcats (9-8-3, 5-5-2 Hockey East) now turn their attention to their next home game on Jan. 3 against LIU at 2 p.m.
