After a sluggish first period, the St. Kate's hockey team proved to be quick learners. The Wildcats adapted well on the fly and opened their 2011-12 season with a convincing 5-2 win over Finlandia University.

First year Kasey Evans made her collegiate debut a memorable one as she recorded a hat trick to lead the Wildcats scoring attack.

Also getting in on the action offensively were Megan Killmer and Cassie Rooney, the freshman and senior each picked up one goal and an assist. Rooney's was the Wildcats first of the season, while Killmer's was the game winner at the 11:53 mark in the third period.

Senior captain Kelsey Abrahamson and freshman Shelby Salmonsen had two assists each to fill out the team stat sheet.

Coach Marshall gave the team mixed reviews on day one noting, "We made some mistakes early, but improved as the game went on. Our power play was pretty good, but we will need to play a more complete game tomorrow."

The Wildcats return to the ice in St.Cloud Saturday afternoon to face Lindenwood. Face off is scheduled for 2:30pm.

Box Score.