EDMONTON — The Alberta Pandas were unable to build any momentum in their season opener, dropping a 3-0 decision to the Saskatchewan Huskies in front of 325 fans at Foote Field. Saskatchewan controlled the pace from the opening whistle, outshooting Alberta 21-6 overall (11-4 on goal) and holding an 11-2 edge in corner kicks to claim the victory.

TOP PERFORMERS
Midfielder Nammi Nguyen spearheaded the Huskies attack with a goal and an assist, while Jenna Steacy and Cheyenne Lehmann each recorded a strike in the win. Isabelle Lachance was a constant threat, registering a team-high five shots (four on target) and an assist, while Hazel Turnbull added an assist. Goalkeeper Alyssa Paydli turned away all four shots she faced to secure the clean sheet for Saskatchewan.  

For Alberta, goalkeeper Tessa Borrelli kept the hosts within reach by making eight saves on 11 shots on goal. Midfielder Erin Hope led the Pandas attack with two shots on target, while Maya Letellier and Meah Plume each added a shot on goal. 

GAME BREAKDOWN
Alberta created an early chance in the opening minute when Letellier forced a save from Paydli, but Saskatchewan quickly took control. 

In the seventh minute, Nguyen set up Steacy for the game's opening goal to put the visitors ahead 1-0. The Huskies doubled their advantage in the 33rd minute when Lehmann finished off a setup from Lachance, sending Saskatchewan into the break with a 2-0 lead.  

Saskatchewan continued to apply relentless pressure in the second half. After Emma Kluth hit the crossbar in the 58th minute, the Huskies put the match out of reach in the 64th minute as Turnbull set up Nguyen for Saskatchewan's third goal.  

Steacy nearly added a fourth in the 86th minute but hit the post. Alberta made a late push in stoppage time, but Paydli made back-to-back saves on attempts from Plume and Hope to preserve the shutout victory. 

The Pandas will host the Regina Cougars at 12:00PM tomorrow afternoon at Foote Field.