HENNIKER, N.H. -- Guided by an offensive boost from the freshmen and a flawless defensive effort, the Castleton University women's ice hockey team earned a 3-0 win over New England College Saturday evening at Lee Clement Arena.
 
In a scoreless first period, the Spartans were in control for the entire 20 minutes. Despite leading in shots 24-4, the Spartans were unable to break through as goaltender Cianna Weir stopped every shot she faced.
 
With the Spartans putting pressure on the Pilgrims' defense the entire period, the team took the lead early in the second period as Riley Nichols broke the deadlock at the 3:00 mark. After a Casey Traill pass off the far boards from center ice, Nichols broke towards goal and slid one past Weir for her first-ever collegiate goal. Nichols is now tied with Darby Palisi for second on the team in points with four as she also collected an assist in tonight's victory.
 
Emily Harris doubled the lead shortly after as she gave the Spartans a 2-0 advantage at the 3:56 mark of the period. After a Samantha Lawler initial shot from point-blank range, Harris was able to poke in the rebound as Weir was unable to secure the save.
 
Harris would add another goal later on in the second period as she secured the win for the Spartans at the 9:11 mark. With her two-point performance tonight, Harris now leads the team in points with five (three goals, two assists).
 
Kirsten DiCicco earned her first-career shutout win in goal as she finished with 14 saves. The Spartans would end the game outshooting the Pilgrims, 50-14.
 
Women's ice hockey returns to action Friday, February 26 as it takes on Plymouth State in a non-conference matchup at Spartan Arena. The puck is scheduled to drop at 4 p.m.