January 9, 2015

Ryerson defeats UOIT 3-1 to open second half of season

TORONTO - A back-and-forth hockey game ended on a high note for Ryerson on Thursday as they took their second half opener against UOIT, 3-1.

Ryerson

UOIT

Final

Ryerson

UOIT

TORONTO - A back-and-forth hockey game ended on a high note for Ryerson on Thursday as they took their second half opener against UOIT, 3-1.

Despite being scoreless, the first period didn't lack action with the puck bouncing constantly between bluelines. The Rams started off the second period with a slight lead in shots at 12 to the Ridgebacks' 11.

(Photo: Alex D'Addese)

The game's first goal, scored by UOIT centre Mariah Wilson, only fueled the fire for the Rams. In the two minutes ensuing, Alyssa Connolly (Mount Albert, Ont.) would bank in her first of the season, pushing in the rebound from defenceman Stephanie Chiste (Nobleton, Ont.).

"We all had butterflies," said Connolly on the Rams' first game following the break. "It was good to get the goal early so we weren't panicked, but honestly it was a team effort."

Connolly would later add an assist to defenceman Justine Glover's (Wasaga Beach, Ont.) first goal as a Ram. The third-year smashed a shot from the blueline that beat UOIT goalie Tori Campbell midway through the period.

In the third frame, Kayla Karbonik (St. Andrews, Man.) would secure the Rams win, scoring her fifth goal of the season on a 2-on-1 play with linemate Emma Rutherford (Kanata, Ont.).

Following the game, head coach Lisa Haley praised Connolly and Glover for their impressive start to the second half of the season.

"I didn't know who was our first, second, third or fourth line tonight, and I was really happy," said Haley. "It's great when you're in a situation where you feel like all four lines can go out there and get the job done."

The win moves the Rams closer to the next group of teams in the standings and the team is now just one point out of the eighth and final playoff spot.

Ryerson will host a Do It For Daron (DIFD) fundraiser game Friday night at 7:30 p.m. in support of youth mental health. Ryerson will play the Queen's Gaels in memory of former player Daron Richardson.

Source: Ryerson Rams