REDS Clinch First With Weekend Wins
(HALIFAX, NS) The UNB REDS scored a 4-0 win over the Dalhousie Tigers in Halifax on Saturday, ending their 2024-25 Atlantic University Sport regular season on a winning note.
Raine Murdoch (Sherwood Park, AB) scored a goal and an assist to lead the REDS offensively while Cassie McCallum (Rothesay, NB) stopped all 18 shots she faced.
"A dominant 4-0 victory to clinch the top spot proves just how much this group has earned that first-round bye," said REDS' head coach Sarah Hilworth.
With the win, UNB finishes with a 21-5-1-1 record and has clinched first place in the AUS standings.
"Locking up first place gives us a huge advantage heading into playoffs, allowing us time to rest, reset, and prepare for the challenges ahead," added Hilworth.
Katelyn Scott (Almonte, ON), Lauren Carter (Milton, ON), and Jorja Nystrom (Leduc, AB) also scored for the REDS on Saturday, while Olivia Eustace (Riverview, NB) had a pair of assists.
On Friday, at STFX, the REDS allowed a late first period goal and trailed the X-Women until late in the third.
With just 3.5 seconds remaining, Melanie Drost (Nepean, ON) scored a power-play goal to force overtime.
When the extra five-minutes brought no resolution, a shootout was required.
Eustace and Rylee Strohm (Kingsville, ON) scored in the shootout and Hannah LeClair (Norboro, PE) stopped two of three shooters as UNB stole the 2-1 victory and a crucial extra point.
"Our shootout win showed the heart and resilience of this team," said Coach Hilworth. "We couldn't be prouder of this team's effort, determination, and belief in each other. Now, the real work begins, and we're excited for what's to come!
The REDS now await a to-be-determined opponent in the AUS semi-final round. That series will begin at the Aitken Centre on Saturday, March 1st at 7:00pm.
STORY BY: Andy Campbell/UNB Athletics
PHOTOS BY: STFX Athletics/Dal Athletics