MARYLAND HEIGHTS, Mo. – Entering the ACHA Women's Division One National Tournament as the 6th-seed, the Bearcats opened up tournament play against the University of Michigan – Dearborn Wolverines on Wednesday, March 13th. The two teams were locked in a defensive battle for all 60 minutes, but Jayna Barnden's power play goal in the first period proved to the difference maker.
The Bearcats came out firing shots left and right at the Wolverine net minder as McKendree held the shot advantage of 11-3 in the first 20 minutes of play. With UM-Dearborn serving a penalty for cross checking at the 11:09 mark, the Bearcats took advantage. Just twelve seconds into the power play, Barnden deposited her 16th goal of the season and 10th power play goal on the assist from Kerstyn Barron.
"I thought we had a strong start to the game and had chances to build a wider lead. We pushed hard, but credit to Michigan – Dearborn in their first Nationals appearance for not allowing us to ever feel comfortable," said Head Coach Derek Pallardy. "We also needed some big saves in the game and Rachel played great!"
McKendree outshot the Wolverines by a large margin at 37-17 for the contest. Sophomore goalkeeper Rachel Staresinic stopped all 17 shots to pick up her second shutout of the season.
The Bearcat penalty kill went a perfect four for four in stopping the Wolverine power play.
McKendree will continue their run in the national tournament on Friday, March 15th at the Centene Community Ice Center with a to be determined puck drop.
