Statistics

WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. -- Mabel Gerard scored twice and Rachael Irving posted 34 saves to lead Western New England University past the University of New England, 5-0, in the Conference of New England (CNE) women's ice hockey regular-season finale at Olympia Ice Center on Saturday (Feb. 21).

The result gives the Golden Bears (17-7-1, 13-4-1 CNE) a chance at the top seed for the upcoming CNE Championship, with four teams still in action the rest of the day. The Nor'easters (10-14-1, 6-11-1) remain in contention for the No.4 seed and home game in the opening round on Wednesday. Official seeds and pairings will be confirmed later.

Michaela Birmingham had three assists on the afternoon for the hosts, including the primary helper on the only tally of the 1st period from Valerie DuVal at the 15:18 mark. Birmingham was in the mix again when Gerard converted on a power play for Western New England at 5:32 of the 2nd, and, by the time the clock hit 11:07, Gerard had made the cushion three.

The other multi-point performer for the Golden Bears, Caroline Bliss, assisted on the last two scores by Katie Collins and Leah Dube.

While UNE out-shot WNEU in the 3rd, Irving collected her final 12 stops to seal the shutout.

Kyleigh Matola (2 periods) and Danielle DeJon went for 19 and seven saves, respectively, on the other end for the Nor'easters, and Mackenzie O'Leary registered five blocked shots in support. Jamie DuPont had the most positive impact in faceoffs, claiming 13 of 22.