FREMONT, NE -- The #6 Minot State Beavers women's hockey team earned a huge road win on Friday evening, shutting out #2 Midland University 2-0 behind a complete team effort and another stellar performance in goal from Jillian Ackerman. With the victory, the Beavers improve to 7-4-6, while Midland drops to 20-2-2.
 
Minot State got off to a strong start, jumping ahead 1-0 just 3:09 into the first period on a goal from Erica Fijala, who buried a shot off a setup from Payton Lang. The Beavers maintained the early momentum and closed out a clean opening period with no penalties committed.
 
The second period featured tight defensive play from both sides, as neither team was able to break through. Minot State killed off Midland's lone power play of the frame and continued to limit high-danger chances while protecting their one-goal lead.
 
In the third, the Beavers capitalized on a power play opportunity to extend their advantage. At 11:16 into the period, Abby Pineau made it 2-0, scoring with assists from Cameron Schmidt and Abby Tallman. The insurance marker proved enough as Minot State held firm the rest of the way.
 
Goaltender Jillian Ackerman was outstanding once again, stopping all 20 shots she faced to secure the shutout. With the clean sheet, Ackerman continues her exceptional season between the pipes.
 
Minot State was efficient on special teams, finishing 1-for-3 on the power play while holding Midland to 0-for-1 on the power play.
 
The Beavers and Warriors will meet again for game two of the weekend series on Saturday, December 6, with puck drop scheduled for 4:00 pm in Fremont.