UTICA, N.Y. - Feb. 3, 2024 - The Cougars dropped the season series against 13th-ranked Utica (16-3-2, 12-2-2). After allowing five goals in their previous matchup, Chatham let up a season-high seven in the loss to the Pioneers. The women drop to 7-7-2 in conference play and 9-7-3 overall. 

Utica was first to score with five minutes remaining in the opening period. The shots on goal favored the Pioneers by four (11-7) and they carried this momentum into the second. 

Utica netted three more goals and allowed the lone Chatham score. Fifth-year Brooke Almond scored her ninth goal of the season off assists from junior Samantha Barrett and senior Ally Nolan. 

In the third, Utica capitalized on two power plays before adding on another score at even strength. Before the midway point of the final period, Utica had amassed a 7-1 lead over the Cougars. The shots on goal to end the game were 53-23, Pioneers. 

Since the break, Chatham has gone 2-6 in conference play. They are currently nine points ahead of ninth place and have a chance to clinch a playoff spot in the coming weeks. Their next game will be at ninth-seeded King's College on Friday, Feb. 9.