HENNIKER, N.H. (Feb. 20, 2026) --- The UMass Boston women's hockey team seized a 3-0 win over New England College in a key LEC matchup, riding a shutout from Leah Bosch (Minnetonka, MN.) and a flurry of third-period goals to snap a two-game skid and improve to 14-8-2 on the season.
In a game defined by relentless pressure and defensive discipline, neither side managed to break through in the first two periods, with the Beacons racking up 23 shots in the opening frame and outshooting the Pilgrims 44-6 overall. The breakthrough finally came late in the third period when Adrianna Kelsch (Bourne, MA.) delivered the game-winner at 14:22, capitalizing on a setup from Aisling McFadden (Erie, PA.).
Grace Lynch (West Roxbury, MA.) doubled the lead just over two minutes later, finishing off assists from Maggie Lynch (Quincy, MA.) and Shea Nolan (Quincy, MA.), before Kelsch struck again 27 seconds after, again with help from McFadden, sealing the contest. Bosch stopped all six shots she faced for her shutout, while McFadden's playmaking keyed the late offensive surge.
Despite a dominant shot advantage, the Beacons had to solve Anna McGinty, who made 41 saves to keep the Pilgrims close for much of the night. UMass Boston's defense stifled New England College, allowing only six shots and controlling the pace, while the Beacons' offense finally broke through in the final minutes to secure a crucial conference victory on the road.
BEACON BITS
- Adrianna Kelsch scored two goals, including the game-winner, and finished with a plus-2 rating.
- Aisling McFadden registered two assists, facilitating both of Kelsch's goals.
- Leah Bosch earned her shutout with six saves for her 14th win of the season.
- The Beacons outshot New England College by a 44-6 margin, including a 23-4 edge in the opening period.
- The win snapped a two-game losing streak and moved UMass Boston to 14-8-2 overall.
Up Next
The Beacons close out their weekend series against New England College on Saturday, Feb. 21, with a 3 p.m. puck drop in Henniker, N.H.
