BELOIT, WI – The Beloit College Women's hockey team faced their toughest test of the season tonight, taking on the UW-Eau Claire Blugolds at Woodman's Sports & Convention Center. While the final score of 9-0 favored the visiting Blugolds (4-1-0, 0-0-0 WIAC), the Buccaneers (1-4-0, 0-0-0 WIAC) demonstrated flashes of resilience and individual effort throughout the game, with their goaltenders putting in a valiant shift under heavy pressure.

Beloit's goaltending tandem of Madison Bliss (Fort Frances, Ontario) and Janelle Quast (Litchfield, Minn.) was undoubtedly the most impactful aspect of the Buccaneers' performance. Facing a relentless UW-Eau Claire offense that peppered them with a staggering 52 shots on target, Bliss and Quast combined for an impressive 43 saves. Quast, who started in goal, faced 14 shots on target and made 10 saves before Bliss took over, making 29 saves on 38 shots. Their efforts prevented a potentially even larger deficit and were a testament to their determination.

The first period saw Beloit's defense holding strong, as the Blugolds were unable to convert any of their 10 shots on target into goals. Quast was instrumental in keeping the score sheet clean during this initial surge. This early defensive stand provided a glimmer of hope and demonstrated the team's ability to withstand pressure.

However, the momentum shifted dramatically in the second period. UWEC exploded for nine goals, largely due to their effective power play and sustained offensive zone time. Despite the score, Beloit's players continued to battle. The Bucs failed to convert on either of their power play opportunities. 

In the third period, Beloit's defense and goaltending regained some stability, allowing only three shots on target to convert into goals. Addison Moudry for UW-Eau Claire saved all 9 shots on target she faced, securing a shutout.

The Buccaneers and Blugolds face off again tomorrow at the Woodman's Center. Tomorrow's puck drop is set for 2 pm.