Box Score BOSTON, Mass. - The season's first Friday night tilt at Edward T. Barry Ice Rink was a victorious one for UMass Boston Women's Ice Hockey. The Beacons fell behind early but battled back to take the season opener 3-2 over Worcester State University.

THE BASICS
UMass Boston 3, Worcester State University 2

UMass Boston (1-0-0)
Worcester State University (0-1-0)

HOW IT HAPPENED
The 2023-24 season got off to a slow start for both squads on the offensive end. It took over 15 minutes of scoreless hockey for Worcester State's Cailey Ryan to break open the scoring with her first goal of the year.

In the second period, the Beacons found their stride with the puck. The first goal of the season for the hosts came from the stick of Allie Reifler. Minutes later, Margeaux Butters built on her strong scoring campaign a year ago, giving the Beacons their first lead of the day, 2-1.

The third period saw the home squad add some insurance with a goal from Ana Gustafson. The Lancers added a late power play goal but Victoria Kennedy stood tall in the final minutes to secure the opening day victory.

BY THE NUMBERS

• The Beacons secured a win in head coach Moe Bradley's first game in the role
• All three UMass Boston goals were scored by returning players
• Butters' eight goals since the start of the 2022-23 season are tied with Katie Wilbert for the most on the team
• In the last two years, the Beacons have taken their only two all-time meetings with Worcester State by identical 3-2 final scores

WHO'S NEXT
The Beacons will play the second half of a back-to-back on Saturday when they travel to Springfield, Mass. to face Western New England University at 5 PM.