The York University Lions women's hockey team hosted the Nipissing Lakers for their first meeting of the 2025–26 season on Friday night at Canlan Ice Sports. With last season's series split between the two sides, the matchup promised another tight battle.  

After a scoreless first 39-plus minutes, York finally broke through late in the second period when Ginger Fast opened the scoring at 19:10, beating Nipissing netminder Alexandra Lehmann to give the Lions a 1–0 lead heading into the final frame. The goal shifted momentum in York's favour, but the Lakers responded with urgency in the third. 

Nipissing evened the score at 16:16 of the third period, as Abby Lunney beat Lions netminder Olivia Tran to knot the game at 1–1. With regulation ending deadlocked, the contest headed to overtime where the Lions continued to press in search of the extra point. 

Just over two minutes into the extra frame, Lexy Anonech, who is one of eight Lions that will celebrate senior day on Saturday, delivered the game-winner. She broke in alone on Lehmann for the deciding goal off a Lakers turnover to seal the victory for York. 

Tran was stellar between the pipes for the Lions, stopping 39 of 40 shots to earn her first win. Lehmann also put in a strong performance herself, making 33 saves in the overtime loss. Nipissing held a slight edge in shots on goal, 40–35, but York's goaltending and timely scoring proved to be the difference. 

LOOKING AHEAD:
Following the win, the Lions will be right back in action as they welcome the Queen's Gaels to Toronto for the final home game of the season on Saturday, January 31. Puck drop is set for 3:00 pm on senior day from Canlan Ice Sports. You can get your tickets here or watch the game live on OUA TV.