In a closely contested match on Thursday, Nov. 23, the Brock Badgers’ women’s hockey team played against the Western Mustangs in London. Despite a valiant effort, the Badgers fell short in a 2-1 loss. The game showcased an outstanding performance by fourth-year goaltender Kenzie Harmison, who made 27 saves out of 29 shots.
The first period saw Western apply pressure on the power play, but the Badgers successfully defended, keeping the score level at zero. The second period brought a moment of triumph for Brock as sophomore forward Jenna Duarte, assisted by Allison Stevenson, skillfully maneuvred around a defender to score her fourth goal of the year. However, Western’s Haylie Kirkpatrick responded just over 40 seconds later, tying the game.
The tide turned in the late third period when a loose puck in front of the net resulted in Western taking the lead. Despite a strong effort from the Badgers, they couldn’t secure an equaliser, and the Mustangs claimed victory. Brock’s ability to successfully kill off all seven penalties was noteworthy, highlighting their resilience in shorthanded situations.
The challenges persisted for the Brock Badgers as they faced the No. 6 Guelph Gryphons on Saturday, Nov. 25 at Canada Games Park, resulting in a 5-0 defeat.
Guelph took an early lead in the first period, with Maeve Sutherland-Case scoring on the power play at the 5:20 mark. The Gryphons extended their lead to 3-0 after 20 minutes of play with goals from Jessica Kouleas and Vanessa Bueti. Guelph added two more goals in the second and third periods, with Sutherland-Case earning her second of the night and Maya Graham getting on the board.
Despite an effort from goaltender Kenzie Harmison to keep her team in the game, Guelph’s dominance prevailed. Harmison made an impressive 38 saves in the contest, despite allowing 5 goals.
As the Badgers look to regroup, they will host the Waterloo Warriors on Friday, Dec. 1, with puck drop set for 6 p.m at Canada Games Park.
For more information on the Brock women’s hockey team, visit gobadgers.ca.