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BIDDEFORD, Maine -- Senior Erin Banfield scored 4:21 into the third period for the only goal of the game, as the University of Southern Maine edged the University of New England, 1-0, in a non-league women's ice hockey game played Tuesday evening (Nov. 5) at the Harold Alfond Forum.

With a win in their season-opener, the Huskies stand at 1-0-0, while the Nor'easters lost for the first time in three outings to drop to 1-1-1.

Neither team had an abundance of quality scoring chances until play opened up a bit in the third frame. Banfield's goal came on a scramble in front of the net when she poked home a rebound of a shot by junior Julia Pearl.

That lead would stand up the rest of the way, thanks in part to a pair of key stops by junior goaltender Liz Bergstrom in the final minute.

With the Nor'easters utilizing an extra skater after pulling their goalie with 45 seconds remaining, Bergstrom made a save with her body to deny UNE senior Jenni Poulin in the slot with 20 seconds on the clock. Ten seconds later, Bergstrom turned aside a point-blank offering from UNE sophomore Marissa Clifford-Biederman.

Bergstrom finished with 20 saves in registering her fourth career shutout.

UNE first-year Sydney Helmbrecht played a strong game between the pipes in her first collegiate appearance. She stopped 27 shots.

Both teams return to action Friday (Nov. 8). Southern Maine opens ECAC Women's East play, hosting Plymouth State University at 4 p.m. The Nor'easters head to Vermont to take on Castleton State College in a 4 p.m. start.


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