The York University Lions women's hockey team hosted the Queen's Gaels on Saturday afternoon, senior day at Canlan Ice Sports. Eight Lions – Abbey McMillan, Abby Hicks, Julianna Duma, Lexy Anonech, Alexa Giantsopoulos, Jill Milligan, and captain Sara McLennan – were all playing their final regular season home games as Lions in this one. It was a milestone game in more ways than one for Anonech, who was dressing in her 100th OUA game.

The Lions entered the game off an overtime win on Friday night over the Nipissing Lakers, and were looking to make it two in a row to celebrate senior day, while also clawing their way back into the playoff hunt.

Both teams came out flying early, each looking to open the scoring. Shortly after some pressure by the Lions. It was the Gaels who struck first when Melissa Parton fired a short-side shot past Olivia Tran to give Queen's a 1–0 lead. Then, Emily DeBrouwer scored her first goal of the season, extending the Gaels' advantage to 2–0.

In the second period, the Lions looked to build momentum, but Queen's continued to apply pressure. Melani Brooks capitalized on a rebound opportunity to make it 3–0. York responded soon after as Lola Massey slid the puck past Gaels goalie Bronwynn Lee to put the Lions on the board. However, the Gaels answered right back, with Sophy Aldred restoring the three-goal lead and making it 4–1.

The third period featured strong defensive play from both sides, with multiple scoring chances turned away by solid goaltending. Despite York's efforts, Queen's maintained control and secured a 4–1 victory.

LOOKING AHEAD: 

The Lions travel to Nipissing on Tuesday night to battle the Lakers on Tuesday night in a game that was originally scheduled for Jan. 23 but was postponed due to inclement weather. Puck drop is set for 8:00 pm on OUA TV.