The Lady Icers opened ECWHL conference play with a disappointing road trip, losing both games this weekend to the University of Rhode Island.

On Saturday night, the travel weary Lady Icers fell 9-1. Though they trailed by a score of only 1-0 at the end of the first period, eventually fatigue set in and Rhode Island's superior depth wore down the Lady Icers.

In the second period the Lady Icers surrendered 5 goals to trail 6-0 at the second intermission. Jess Waldron scored at the onset of the third period to make the score 6-1, but it was too late. According to assistant coach Andrew Lindner, the team's morale was deflated by Rhode Island's fast start.

"In the 3rd period, our hearts weren't into the game," Lindner said.

Sunday's game did not bring a better result for the Lady Icers, as they lost by a score of 8-1, the lone goal scored by Julie Patterson. Again the Lady Icers played with Rhode Island early on, entering the third period trailing 4-1, but eventually Rhode Island tired out Penn State, as they scored four goals in the final period.

Rhode Island benefited from having excellent overall depth, with a roster that features four forward lines and three defensive lines. Penn State, by comparison, has only two forward lines and two defensive lines.

One positive note from a disappointing weekend was the performance of the goaltenders Gena Goldbaum and Melanie Kleinmann. Goldbaum recorded 50 saves on Saturday night and Kleinmann had 35 in Sunday's game. Both goalies have shared time this season, and Lindner said that there is not a clear-cut starter at the position.

The good news for the Lady Icers is that the schedule gets easier from here on out.

"Rhode Island is probably the best team on the schedule," Lindner said.