GUELPH, Ont. - For the second time in as many regular season games the Guelph Gryphons women's hockey team had their game decided by a shootout, this time falling 2-1 to the Varsity Blues on Thursday night (Oct. 19). Martina Fedel put on another sensational performance while Chihiro Suzuki picked up her first goal of the season in the Gryphons 2023-24 home opener, but the team was unable to capture their second win of the season over the defending OUA champs.

After a scoreless first period that saw the Gryphons spend the majority of the period in the offensive zone, third-year forward Chihiro Suzuki scored her first goal of the season on a perfect shot just below the glove of Toronto goaltender Erica Fryer four minutes into the second frame. The Gryphons came into the game very familiar with the Varsity Blues having fell to the team in the 2022-23 semifinal round of the postseason. The two teams looked evenly matched, with both teams generating quality chances and seeing strong performances from their goalies.

The remainder of the second period saw both teams receive plenty of chances on the powerplay, including a 5-on-3 chance for the visiting Varsity Blues. The Gryphon penalty kill was perfect on the night, limiting shot attempts and having Martina Fedel stop everything sent her way. The third year goalie stopped 26 of the 27 shots she faced, which included several fantastic saves on out-numbered chances. 

The third period opened with the Gryphons back on the powerplay but after a misplay on the blueline Katy McKenna broke away and beat Fedel to tie the game with a shorthanded score. the remainder of regulation would see both teams tighten up on defence not wanting to surrender the go-ahead goal. After 60 minutes of action the game needed extra time to come to a decision. Despite several strong chances for the Gryphons to end the game, a shootout would be needed for the second time in as many games for the Gryphons. Erica Fryer stopped all three U of G shooters while Emma Elders scored for the Varsity Blues to capture the two points for the visiting team. 

The Gryphons (1-0-1) will return to the Gryphon Centre Saturday afternoon (Oct. 21) when they host the 2022-23 OUA runner-ups in the Nipissing Lakers. Puck drop is set for 2:30pm with tickets available at gryphons.ca/tickets. Fans unable to attend can catch all the action live online at www.oua.tv.