OSHAWA, Ont. –  The Ontario Tech Ridgebacks kicked off their OUA playoff run with a statement, taking down the Nipissing Lakers 4-1 to advance to the quarterfinals.

The Ridgebacks were on the front foot from the start, with Alexander Irwin finding the back of the net in the 26th minute to break the deadlock. Just two minutes later, Erion Metaj doubled the lead with a tidy finish off an assist from Koby Greaves.

Irwin wasn't done yet—he netted his second of the game just before halftime on a penalty kick, giving Ontario Tech a commanding 3-0 lead heading into the break. In the 85th minute, Glodi Kabuya made it 4-0, all but sealing the win.

Nipissing found a late goal from Josiah Estephane in the final seconds. Ontario Tech was in control for most of the match, outshooting Nipissing 18 to 9, and goalkeeper Kevon Grant came up with six big saves to keep them comfortable.

With the win, the Ridgebacks are moving on to the OUA quarterfinals.