Ohio State Defeated Penn State in Overtime
The Buckeyes secured a 2-1 season-opening victory against the Nittany Lions at Pegula Ice Arena.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Hockey
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Ohio State edged out Penn State with a 2-1 overtime victory to open the women's hockey season. Joy Dunne netted the decisive goal just 46 seconds into the extra period.
Why it matters
This narrow result highlights the competitive intensity of the early-season matchup as both teams tested their rosters. Despite heavy defensive resistance from Penn State, Ohio State managed to overcome a series of missed power play opportunities by their opponents.
Penn State blocked 26 shots and held the Buckeyes to a 2-1 final score, though the team could not capitalize on seven power play chances. Goaltender Morgan Stickney anchored the effort with 44 total saves.
The players
Joy Dunne
She is an Ohio State player who scored the game-winning goal in the overtime period.
Morgan Stickney
She serves as the goaltender for Penn State and recorded 44 saves during the contest.
Kaia Malachino
She is an Ohio State athlete who scored the first goal of the game for her team.
Grace Outwater
She is a member of the Penn State women's hockey team who scored her team's only goal.
The details
Kaia Malachino opened the scoring for Ohio State after a deflection off teammate Danica Maynard, while Grace Outwater scored the lone goal for Penn State. The game remained deadlocked until Joy Dunne found the back of the net 46 seconds into overtime to clinch the win.
Timeline
September 24, 2026: Ohio State defeated Penn State in the overtime season opener.
September 25, 2026: The teams meet for the second game of the series at 4 p.m.
The Big Picture
This game represents the first major competitive data point under the 2026-27 NCAA women's hockey season standards. The intensity of this overtime matchup underscores the high level of parity expected across the league this year.
Penn State's failure to convert on seven power play opportunities significantly hampered their offensive output despite 26 blocked shots. Ohio State's ability to finish the game in the opening minute of overtime suggests high efficiency in sudden-death situations.
The takeaway
This overtime thriller demonstrates how defensive resilience and goaltending can keep a game close even when power play opportunities are squandered. Teams should prioritize special teams practice to capitalize on advantages during tight, low-scoring contests.
What happens next
The teams are scheduled to play the second game of the series on Friday, September 25, 2026, at 4 p.m.
Further reading
For more information on team schedules and standings, visit the Hockey section.
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