After a historic and exciting season for the women’s ice hockey team, their 12-game winning streak came to an end at the SUNYAC Championship on March 8. 

In what began as a tense and even matchup between the Plattsburgh State Cardinals and the Lakers, the first period zipped by with a lot of back and forth between the two offenses, giving both teams a run for their money. However, neither were able to make it to the goal until Molly Riggi of the Cardinals broke through Oswego’s weak defense and sailed the puck into the net on Laker goalie Lexi Levy’s unattended left side just two minutes into the second period. 

Despite the second-period goal, Levy was determined not to let another through. In total, she made 26 saves out of 28 shots, the only potential avoidance resting on the shoulder of the Lakers’ defense, which easily collapsed. During multiple power plays and weaknesses in Plattsburgh’s own defense, the Lakers tried to get a leg up, but were unsuccessful. 

By the third period, the Lakers were lacking on the ice, obviously tired. Once again, the home team’s defense fell apart, allowing for the second and final goal of the game to be scored by Tessa Morris, assisted by Sydnee Francis and Emily Kasprzak.

The third period was a painful watch compared to the season’s previous games. It was heartbreaking as the women buckled under the pressure of the SUNYAC title. The game’s final few minutes saw the ignition of a fight for the team, but their energy was no match to Plattsburgh’s endurance.

Tears were shed as the final buzzer blew and the Cardinals celebrated their win. However the game was not completely a waste for Oswego, with Jenna Majewski and Lauren Schell being named to the SUNYAC All-Tournament team.

Photo by: Oswego Athletics