The York University Lions women's hockey team returns to the ice looking to make a late-season push for the playoffs.
 
That road starts with a pair of games against nationally-ranked competition in the GTA this weekend against the top two teams in the OUA East. First it's a trip to Varsity Arena Friday night to tangle with No. 4-ranked U of T, followed by a quick turnaround and a return home against the No. 6 Nipissing Lakers. York is seven points out of the fourth and final OUA East playoff spot, currently occupied by the Ontario Tech Ridgebacks.
 
The Lions have played both teams twice this year, and played them tough. York handed Nipissing its only regulation loss on the season – a 3-1 win in North Bay on Nov. 4. All three losses the Lions have suffered at the hands of Lakers and Blues have been one-goal games in the third period, including a 5-2 loss in the season opener on Oct. 21 and a 2-1 loss at Varsity Arena on Nov. 19.
 
The Matchups:
Jan. 6: York (4-10-0) vs. No. 4 Toronto (11-2-0)
Jan. 7: York (4-10-0) vs. No. 6 Nipissing (9-1-2-1)
 
Game Details:
Fri., Jan. 6 at Toronto (7:00 pm – OUA.tv)
Sat., Jan. 7 vs. Nipissing (2:15 pm – OUA.tv)
 
Current Streaks:
York – Lost 4
Toronto – Won 6
Nipissing – Won 3
 
Quick Facts
 
York: 

• The Lions are one of five OUA teams not to allow a shorthanded goal
• The Lions are the most penalized team in the OUA (152 PIMS).

• The Varsity Blues have surrendered the fewest goals in the OUA (15).
• U of T has the best penalty kill in the province (97.2%).

• The Lakers have scored the second-most goals in the OUA (43).
• The Lakers have the third-best road power play in the OUA (15.0%). 

Lions to Watch:
 
#15 BROOKE ANDERSON: Fifth-year forward… The Lions will look for big things from their captain in the second half… Tied for the team lead in goals (4)... Leading in points (9).... The Lions are in a position where they will go as far as Anderson takes them… Is on pace to shatter her previous career high in points (11 – 2019-20).

#24 LEXI ANONECH: Second-year forward… Anonech has been described as someone with good playmaking ability… She has showcased that this season, with all seven of her points being assists… Also has a solid shot, which hasn't been on display as much this season… Lions will need her to contribute in the goal department in the second half as well