OSHAWA, Ont. — A dominant first period propelled the Ontario Tech Ridgebacks to a 2-1 victory over the York Lions at the Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre on Saturday night.

Mackenna Krulicki opened the scoring for the Ridgebacks at 13:39 of the first period, netting a power-play marker with an assist from Harrie Jones. Julianne Davidson extended the lead to 2-0 with just 36 seconds left in the period, converting another power-play opportunity with help from Kayla Welk and Milana Perri.

York found life in the third period when Lola Massey scored on the power play at 5:36, assisted by Alexa Giantsopoulos. Despite the Lions generating 37 shots, Merlino stood tall between the pipes, turning aside 36 shots to earn the win.

The Ridgebacks' disciplined special teams play proved decisive, as they killed off nine of York's 10 power-play chances. 

Ontario Tech is back in action on January 17 when they head to Toronto to take on the Varsity Blues.