TORONTO, Ont.  – Justin Svenson's hat trick wasn't enough to carry the Ontario Tech Ridgebacks past the Toronto Varsity Blues, who secured a 5-4 overtime victory Thursday night at Varsity Arena.

Ontario Tech started the game with authority, taking a 2-1 lead in the opening period thanks to Svenson's pair of goals. However, Toronto's relentless attack in the second period saw the Varsity Blues score three times, including two from Billy Moskal—one on the power play and another shorthanded—to put the Ridgebacks on their heels.

Svenson brought the Ridgebacks back to life in the third period with his game-tying goal, pushing the contest to overtime. But Toronto's Nicholas Wong broke Ridgeback hearts just 35 seconds into the extra frame with the game-winner.

The Ridgebacks will be back in action on Saturday, January 11 when they head to North Bay, Ont. to take on the Nipissing Lakers.