Arizona women’s hockey suffers overtime loss to ASU

Grace Carnal

November 12, 2024

University of Arizona forward Brynn O’Neill, 7, and Grand Canyon University defenseman McKenna Bruggraf, 14, race for the puck during the third period in the Tucson Convention Center on Sept. 26. O’Neill previously played for Lakeville South High School.

The University of Arizona women’s hockey team traveled to Tempe to play ASU in Mountain America Community Iceplex on Friday, Nov. 8, at 7 p.m. The Wildcats suffered a 2-1 in overtime.

First Period

ASU came out strong, shocking Arizona with its aggressive and quick style of play. Brynn Oneill laid in the first goal for the Wildcats six minutes into the game, putting Arizona in the lead 1-0. The Sun Devils continued to apply pressure, attacking the Wildcats on the rink and receiving two penalties in the latter half of the opening period. Each team displayed relentless energy on both ends of the ice, but despite ASU’s efforts to tie the game, the Sun Devils failed to score going into the second period.

Second period

Throughout the second period, the pressure continued as both programs went back-and-forth trading possession of the puck. ASU attempted to find the net, but the Wildcats defense helped prevent the Sun Devils from finding the back of the net. By using effective forechecking to keep ASU pinned in their own zone, the Wildcats took control of the game’s pace.

Despite both teams failing to score, Arizona managed 14 shots on goal compared to ASU’s 8. The Wildcats continued to lead 1-0 heading into the third period.

Third period

Arizona and ASU increased their physicality throughout the third period, exchanging scoring opportunities in a back-and-forth battle. ASU, however, was quick to respond, challenging the Wildcats offense. In the final minutes of the game, Taylor Bierlmeier put the puck in the goal for the Sun Devils, tying the score 1-1 and forcing overtime.

During overtime, ASU took over and turned the game around. Breanne Powell scored a goal to put the Sun Devils ahead 2-1, handing the Wildcats their fifth loss of the season.