Saskatoon, SK - The UBC Thunderbirds women's hockey (11-4-4) team extended its win streak to three games tonight as they defeated the University of Saskatchewan Huskies (11-6-2) 1-0 in a closely-matched game. The win furthers the close gap between the Thunderbirds and the Huskies in the Canada West standings. UBC now has 36 points compared to Saskatchewan's 32.
 
A single goal in the first period by third year alternate captain Stephanie Schaupmeyer has allowed the 'Birds to claim all three of their games thus far this year. Schaupmeyer was awarded first star of the game, and goaltender Samantha Langford earned the second star, making 25 saves for her fourth shutout of the season.

"The players came out with a lot of energy, stuck to the game plan and played tough defensively," said UBC head coach Graham Thomas. "Everyone contributed in a total team effort and Samantha (Langford) played solid."

UBC carried their momentum from a positive start to the year through a physically challenging first period, preserving through two penalties for roughing and bodychecking. The 'Birds were able to push their way onto the board first when forward Schaupmeyer scored her second goal of the season off of a pass from Nicole Saxvik.
 
Both teams had chances in the second, although neither team was able to find the back of the net. As well, both teams served penalties but neither were able to take advantage of the power play. When the period concluded, UBC led on the shot clock 18-15.
 
Both teams upped the ante in the third, in which the Huskie's narrowed the difference in shots, firing one less than UBC's 26. Defence was heavy, and rough play continued. Thunderbird Nikola Brown-John served her second penalty of the game for bodychecking, this time as a five minute major; however the Thunderbirds penalty kill clutched up and killed it off. UBC went 0-for-5 on the power play, and the Huskies went 0-for-4.
 
The Thunderbirds were able to secure the win, thanks to Schaupmeyer's early first period goal. Both teams should be ready for a rough-and-tumble game tomorrow night, again at 5 pm at Rutherford Rink in Saskatoon.