AURORA, Ill. - The University of Dubuque women's hockey team played their final game of the season against Aurora University. The Spartans took an early lead before falling 9-4, concluding the year behind a four-goal performance from Natalie Meeder.

In the first period, the Spartans dominated, outshooting Aurora 15-6 in the opening 20 minutes. After a penalty, UD was put on the penalty kill. Natalie Meeder picked up the puck on a fast break and scored a short-handed goal by outskating her opponents and putting the puck past the goalkeeper. Shortly after, the Spartans found themselves in an advantageous position with two penalties giving UD a two-skater advantage for the final four minutes of the first period. A strong shot by Alexandria Simmons fell to Meeder in front of the goal, who was able to maneuver the puck past the goalkeeper and make it a 2-0 scoreline before the half. Ashleigh Eldridge and Simmons were credited with the assist.

The second and third periods got away from the Spartans as Aurora found enough goals to win the match 9-4. Natalie Meeder scored twice in the third period to bring the game within two goals halfway through the third. Meeder's fourth goal was assisted by Dani Denhof.

Natalie Meeder led the Spartans with a program-breaking record four goals in a single game. Smashing the previous record by two goals. Assists for the night came from Alexandria Simmons, Ashleigh Eldridge and Dan Denhof. 

The loss to Aurora ends the season for the Spartans, narrowly missing out on a Slaats Cup Playoff spot.