The Ryerson Rams women’s hockey team lost 3-1 to the Guelph Gryphons last night at the Mattamy Athletic Centre.
The Rams outshot their opponent 38-31 and had quality scoring chances, but just couldn’t get the puck past Gryphons goaltender Stephanie Nehring.
The first period ended in a 1-1 tie, with both sides exchanging quick goals. Guelph’s Jessica Pinkerton scored on the powerplay after Ryerson’s Claire Sabine was sent off for two minutes for contact to the head.
Ryerson’s Emma Rutherford scored her first goal as a Ram, and Ryerson’s only goal of the game, a few minutes later to tie it up.
The Gryphons broke away from the Rams in the second period. Goals by Kaitlyn Lowy and Kelly Gribbons put them ahead by two and left the Rams playing catch-up.
They had several quality chances, but Nehring stood tall to deny the Rams. With six minutes remaining in the third, Rams coach Lisa Haley pulled goalie Alex Armstrong to get the extra attacker. The Rams continued to push hard but nothing came of their opportunity with the extra skater.
Haley wasn’t happy with the loss but she was optimistic about her team’s effort, acknowledging that they fought hard and competed well against a superior team.
“I’m not going to be too frustrated with it, I think Guelph is a really quality team, probably one of the toughest teams we’ll face this year and I felt we came out and started really well in the first period.”
Haley acknowledged the team’s strong effort and determination but admitted there is still room for improvement. She felt the team has to be better on defence moving forward if they hope to win more games.
“38 shots against one of the top teams in the country, it’s a step in the right direction for us. Obviously we want to get some wins but I like where we’re headed,” she said.
The Rams are back in action tomorrow night against Brock.
Stefan graduated from the Ryerson School of Journalism in 2015.