Women’s Hockey: Terriers Host Syracuse to begin non-conference play

By Miranda Lemus

Following a week off of competition, Boston University Women’s Hockey (0-2-0, 0-2-0 HE) will host back-to-back contests against the Syracuse University Orange (3-4-0, 0-0-0 CHA). 

Most recently, the Terriers dropped both matches in their home-and-home series against the No. 10 Northeastern University Huskies (5-2-0, 2-1-0 HE). Both games showcased the skills of newcomers and the experience of veterans; the only question mark for the Terriers was the goaltending.

Freshman goaltender Mari Pietersen and graduate goaltender Alexa Matses made their debut for the Terriers in their respective games. Pietersen played in BU’s home opener giving up three goals on 25 shots, and Matses got the starting nod the following day, saving 28 of 30 shots. 

Each netminder is fully capable of standing tall for the Terriers, but with the absence of junior goaltender Callie Shanahan, BU will need a consistent starter to ensure success. 

On the flip side, Syracuse has had a set first-string goalie since their game of the season. Graduate Allie Kelley has played all seven games for the Orange and has maintained a .907 save percentage, despite a 7-0 loss to No. 9 Cornell (3-0-0, 0-0-0 ECAC). 

Coming off such a large loss, Syracuse will certainly come to Boston looking to prove they belong. However, BU needs a statement win going into a tough stretch of Hockey East play following this series. 

So far, coach Tara Watchorn has granted the most playing time to many veteran players who have found that extra gear in their play. More specifically, a consistent standout for the Terriers is senior assistant captain Catherine Foulem. 

What makes Foulem so valuable is not what she does when she has the puck, but what she does when she does not have the puck. Whether it be finding open space to create offensive production or leading the rush through the neutral zone, Foulem always finds her way on the stat sheet.

Watchorn has given very little playing time to the freshman class. The only newcomer to get frequent minutes on the ice is forward Alex Law. The U-18 Team Canada assistant captain has been a fantastic addition to the Terriers offense, allowing the other players around her to play up to their potential with her pace of play. Law will be one to watch this season. 

On paper, BU should skate through Syracuse with ease. It is only a matter of time for the Terriers to show what they’re truly capable of.

BU will host Syracuse on Friday night and Saturday Afternoon. Both games will be held at Walter Brown Arena starting at 6pm and 3pm, respectively. This weekend’s series will be available to stream on ESPN+.