The Lindenwood women's hockey team opened the 2017-18 season on Friday evening in Madison, Wis. with a 3-1 loss at No. 2 Wisconsin. Taylor Girard scored Lindenwood's first goal of the season while on the power play in the second period.

Lindenwood netminder Jolene deBruyn sparkled in net during the first period, stopping 17 of the 18 shots sent her way. Wisconsin broke through with the game's first goal at the 16:15 mark of the period to take a 1-0 lead. The Badgers carried the one-goal lead into the first-period intermission.

Wisconsin extended its lead to a two-goal margin with just over 15 minutes left in the middle frame. The Badger goal came while on the power play.

Wisconsin was whistled for consecutive minor penalties at the 17:14 and 17:31 marks of the period, giving Lindenwood a two-skater advantage. With 47 seconds remaining in the 5-3 opportunity, Taylor Girard found the back of the net to bring the Lions within one-goal of the Badgers. Mariah Hinds and Courtney Ganske notched the assists on Girard's power-play score.

The second period ended with Wisconsin holding a 2-1 lead.

Wisconsin scored once during the third period, moving in front by a score of 3-1. The Lions were unable to score again, as the Badgers prevailed by the final score of 3-1.

deBruyn finished the game with 48 saves, including 19 during the third period.

Wisconsin out shot Lindenwood 51-9 for the game.

Lindenwood moves to 0-1-0 with the non-conference loss. Lindenwood and Wisconsin will conclude their two-game series tomorrow afternoon. Puck drop from LaBahn Arena is scheduled for 3:00 p.m.