NORTH BAY, Ont. – After taking a 3-2 lead into the third period, the Ontario Tech Ridgebacks men's hockey team had a crucial road win in their sights. The Nipissing Lakers had other ideas as they managed to defeat the Ridgebacks 5-3 on Friday night, thanks to a big third period comeback.

Andrew Suriyuth (Kingston, Ont.) opened the scoring for the Ridgebacks just 57 seconds into the first period. Both teams would combine for four goals in the second period. Sean Ross (Bracebridge, Ont.) and James White (Peterborough, Ont.) both found the back of the net to give Ontario Tech a 3-2 lead, but Lakers' forward Harrison Caines tied the game up at three before the break.

Nipissing's offence would come alive in the third as they scored three unanswered goals including one from Cole Stewart at 5:08, which would be the game winner. Lakers' goalie Michael Herringer finished the night with 25 saves while Leif Hertz (Kingston, Ont.) turned aside 28 shots for the Ridgebacks.

With Friday's win, the Lakers jump in front of the Ridgebacks in the OUA east division standings. These two teams will meet again tomorrow afternoon in North Bay. Puck drop is set for 2 p.m.

RIDGEBACKS AT A GLANCE
Overall Record: 10-11-0 (W-L-OTL)
Conference Record: 8-6-1

Next Game: Saturday, Feb. 26 @ Nipissing Lakers (2 p.m. – North Bay, Ont.)