Butler’s second-period goal holds up for Princeton

Sally Butler scored at 6:13 of the second period to help Princeton edge Rensselaer 2-1 in a defensive duel on Friday.

After surrendering an early goal to Rensselaer freshman Taylor Mahoney just 23 seconds into the game, the Tigers (11-13-4, 9-10-2 ECAC Hockey) broke through with a goal by Denna Laing 10 minutes later to tie the game.

Princeton’s penalty killing was stellar in the first, defending a two-man advantage late, and finishing with just two shots on goal allowed in the period.

Goaltenders Rachel Weber and Kelly O’Brien each pitched a perfect effort in the third period, upholding Butler’s second-period goal as the winner.

Weber tallied 22 saves for the Tigers, and O’Brien made 24 saves for the Engineers (9-20-4, 6-13-2).