UOIT offense unable to solve Lakers goaltender

OUA Women's Hockey: Nipissing defeated UOIT 1-0

OSHAWA, Ont. - The UOIT women's hockey team was shutout 1-0 Sunday afternoon by the Nipissing Lakers at the Campus Ice Centre.

The Ridgebacks offence worked hard posting a total of 42 shots in the effort but were unable to solve Lakers goaltender Jacqueline Rochefort. The high number of shots led to several worthwhile opportunities from the Ridgebacks, however, Rochefort was able to stifle every opening.

The first period saw both teams exchange excellent scoring chances with UOIT forward Mikaeli Cavell (Edmonton, Alta.) having the best chance for the Ridgebacks. After setting a screen in front, Cavell was able to find the rebound but was unable to convert the chance for a goal at the midway point of the period.

UOIT entered the second period with renewed energy and took control of the game tempo.

Defender Laura Marchese (Burlington, Ont.) had an early scoring chance only four minutes into the period with a powerful slap shot that appeared the fool the Lakers goalie, however Rochefort was able to get just enough of the shot to steer it clear of the net. Ridgebacks captain Jill Morillo (Whitby, Ont.) also had a chance to take the lead on a rebound opportunity during a power play but again was stopped by Rochefort.

During a power play opportunity late in the period, Lakers defenseman Jade Gauthier was able to convert her own rebound chance to take the 1-0 lead heading into the third.

The third period saw the Ridgebacks again take control of the game as they would outshoot the Lakers 12-1 but were unable to find the equalizer. The final chance for UOIT came with only 20 seconds remaining in the game. With the net empty and the extra attacker on, the puck found its way through a crowd to end up on the stick of forward Katie Dillon (Oshawa, Ont.) who unleashed a rocket one-timer on net but Rochefort again was there to shut the door.

The shutout put an end to Dillon's eight-game point streak which is the largest to date in the OUA this season. Over the eight game stretch, Dillon scored four goals and added seven assists.

Despite the loss the Ridgebacks appeared to be in good form. Offensively, the high number of shots led to a great number of quality chances and defensively goaltender Cassie Charette (Ottawa, Ont.) was strong stopping all but one shot.

The Ridgebacks will look to rebound from the loss on Saturday, November 23 when they host the University of Toronto. Puck drop for Whitby Girls Hockey Association Day is 3:30 p.m.

A QUICK LOOK AT THE RIDGEBACKS
Overall Record: 11-6-0
Conference Record: 7-5-0

Next Game: Sat. Nov. 23 vs. Toronto (3:30 p.m.)