LONDON, ON – Friday night in London, the Gryphons women's hockey team officially began their defence of the McCaw Cup with a hard fought 3-2 overtime loss to the Western Mustangs in what was a re-match of last year's OUA final. Marlowe Pecora scored the overtime winner for the Mustangs two minutes into the 4-on-4 OT period.

Last year, Gryphons goalie Valerie Lamenta was named the CIS Player of the Year. Friday night in London, she picked up right where she left off from her incredible 2015-16 season. Lamenta made a total of 36 saves on the night and made several key saves during the 3rd period and in OT. Before Lamenta impressed late in the game, it was the Gryphons who jumped out to a 1-0 lead in the early goings.

Just two minutes into the 2016-17 season opener, Gryphons fourth year forward Kelly Gribbons would score her first goal of the new season as she found the back of the net during a U of G power play. Western would score the next two goals to take a 2-1 lead, but the Gryphons were able to tie the game at 2-2 midway through the 2nd period thanks to a great individual effort from Gribbons, who flew through the neutral zone and into Western territory before finding Mackenzie Wong on the door step for a tap in. After a scoreless third period, Western would score the game-winner 1:59 into the extra frame.

The Gryphons were outshot 39-22 on the night.

Although the Gryphons leave London disappointed, they also are rewarded with a point for taking the game to OT. Up next for the Gryphons, the 2016-17 home opener on Saturday, October 15 as they play host the Laurentian Voyagers at the Gryphon Centre. The team's 2015-16 OUA championship banner will be unveiled before the puck drop, which is scheduled for 2pm and can be seen live online at www.oua.tv.