OSHAWA, Ont.- Heading out on the road to begin their 2021 OUA exhibition schedule, the Guelph Gryphons started things off on the right foot Saturday afternoon in Oshawa. Paying a visit to the Ontario Tech Ridgebacks, the Gryphons had three different goal scorers and consistent pressure all game leading them to a 4-1 win.
Using their mix of veterans and rookies, the Gryphons had a strong showing from everyone on their roster.
"We're obviously really pleased with a win to start the 2021/22 exhibition season," said Gryphon's Head Coach Rachel Flanagan. "Our veteran players led the way but we were so impressed with the nine skaters who wore the Gryphon jersey for the first time."
After a scoreless opening twenty minutes of play, the Gryphons were able to get on the board first in the second. Not even a full minute into the middle frame, Rylee Davison tallied the maiden goal of 2021 for Guelph to put them up 1-0. However, the Ridgebacks were able to tie the game up just shy of the midway point of the second period.
Although they quickly found themselves in a 1-1 tie, it did not take the Gryphs very long to jump back out in front. Less than two minutes after Ontario Tech knotted the game up, Gabi Underwood scored to put the Gryphons back up by one.
Holding that 2-1 advantage entering the third period, Guelph made sure to put the game away in the final frame. Scoring twice in the third, the Gryphons used goals from Nicole MacKinnon and Rylee Davison (her 2nd of the night), to secure the win.
In goal for the Gryphons, Ally Davidson stopped 12 of the 13 shots she faced. Guelph went on to outshoot Ontario Tech 31-13 in the contest.
The Gryphons will continue their exhibition schedule on October 23rd when they head back out on the road for a visit with the Waterloo Warriors.
