BU Dominate Guelph in Exhibition

BOSTON — Despite a slow first period, the Boston University Women’s Ice Hockey team defeated the University of Guelph Gryphons 3-0. Starting Sophomore goalie Victoria Hanson saved all six shots she faced while Freshman Erin O’Neil stopped 10 in relief.

“I still want one of them to show me they’re the number one goalie,” Head Coach Brian Durocher said of the goaltending duo. “If you look at their body of work in the season, the 34 games, I think they both want to elevate their game.” Coach Durocher elaborated that the responsibility is on the goalies, not him, to decide who will be the main starter during the season.

Junior Samantha Sutherland opened the scoring by tipping a blister from fellow Junior Sarah Steele at the blue line 2 minutes 49 seconds into the second period. 52 seconds later, Senior Dakota Woodworth followed up Jordan Juron’s effort for a two-goal lead. 51 seconds later, the Terrirers Senior Assistant Captain Dakota Woodworth shot home a nice pass from Junior Jordan Juron to make it 2-0. BU controlled the pace of the game throughout, but especially in the second period. Before the 10 minute mark, Junior Maddie Elia scored with assists from her Senior linemates Kayla Tutino and Sarah Lefort.

The Terriers debuted not only Junior Alexis Crossley, a transfer from New Hampshire, but four Freshmen skaters and O’Neil in goal. Winger Sammy Davis played aggresive all game, generating multiple scoring opportunities on her five shots and multiple steals in the offensive zone. “I thought they really, really stepped up,” Woodworth said after the game. “They didn’t look like Freshmen out there.”

BU out-shot Guelph 39 to 16 in on-goal shots and 73 to 30 in overall attempts Guelph did not get their tenth shot on goal until 5:05 left in the third period. All game, Guelph struggled to clear the puck past the red line, allowing BU’s offense to control the pace. Even when the Gryphons got time on offense, the Terrier defense kept the puck carrier along the wall and blocked off shooting lanes.

The Terriers open regular season play with a Hockey East match-up with the UCONN Huskies next Friday at 7:00 p.m.