WINONA, Minn. — On a day when Saint Mary's (3–6–0, 2–4–0) played for far more than the scoreboard, the Cardinals fell 2–1 to Concordia-Moorhead (2–6–0, 2–4–0) in their Rally for Riley game. It was an afternoon dedicated to honoring their teammate courageously battling brain cancer. 

Despite the loss, the Cardinals delivered a gritty performance in front of a crowd united in support of Riley and her fight.

Saint Mary's struck first in the opening period when Kenzie Meland buried a power-play goal at 12:46, set up by Celia Midtbo. The early spark came moments after a Cobbers penalty, giving the Cardinals the boost they needed. 

Concordia answered quickly, however, with an equalizer at 9:06, and the teams headed into the first intermission tied 1–1.

The Cardinals generated chances, including an early power play and key blocks from Teagan Phillips and Alexa March, but Concordia managed to break through late. 

A goal from the Cobbers at 19:32 proved to be the difference, sending the Cobbers into the third period with a 2–1 lead.

Saint Mary's pushed hard in the final frame, fueled by emotion and the meaning behind the game. The Cardinals created opportunities with shots from Leah Parker, Midtbo, and others, but were unable to solve the Cobbers' defense. A late power play gave Saint Mary's a final opportunity to tie the game, but the equalizer never came as Concordia held on for the 2–1 win.

Though the final score didn't fall their way, the Cardinals played with heart, pride, and purpose standing with Riley and her family in a powerful show of support.

The Cardinals will take a long break as this was their final game of 2025, they return to the ice on Jan. 2 in Stevens Point.