OTTAWA — The Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) Bold women's hockey team opened the new year with a closely contested 4-2 win over the Carleton Ravens. The tight matchup honed the energy of a playoff game with both teams fighting for playoff contention.

Kicking off 2025 the Bold brought the energy. Early in the first, TMU kept the puck in the Ravens zone, searching for early chances. 

Going off a breakaway, Payton Kerr scored a fiery backhanded goal at 9:34 to make the Bold's first of the new year.

Shaken by the Bold's dominance early in the game, Carleton decided to up their pressure. Their offensive spark pushed them to net two goals, putting them in the lead 2-1 after the first period.

The Ravens went into the second period continuing to control the ice. TMU Goalie Alexia Stratos made several stellar saves to counter Carleton's offensive run. 

Later in the second period, the Bold picked up their speed. Eager to tie the game, TMU's Ava Caputo scored a breakaway goal, feeding off of the game's fast paced energy.

Tie game and tensions increasing, captain Emily Baxter and Emma Macgregor were presented with a two on one. With a gorgeous pass from Macgregor, Baxter was able to get the puck into the net, ending the second period with the lead, 3-2.

Starting the third the Bold were presented with a powerplay but couldn't find good scoring chances. 

Carleton found themselves with multiple breakaway opportunities but Stratos stood strong, accumulating 26 total saves.

Wanting to kill the clock and keep the puck out of their zone, TMU played solid defense. 

Late in the third securing the win, Payton Kerr scored her second goal of the night on an empty net. 

TMU will continue their weekend crossing Ottawa to take on the University of Ottawa Gee-Gees on Saturday, Jan. 11.

Puck drop at the Minto Sports Complex Arena is scheduled for 3 p.m. Support the Bold from afar by catching the live action on OUA.tv.