TORONTO – The Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) Bold women's hockey team aimed to bounce back against the Ontario Tech Ridgebacks after their loss at Winter Homecoming, and they delivered with a decisive 4-1 win on Saturday night.

Head coach Lisa Haley commented on the team's energy heading into the rink, noting their determination and frustration from the previous game.

"We walked in today feeling like we needed to redeem ourselves and show the pride we have for our school and the program we represent," said Haley.

The first period began slowly for both teams until first-year forward Dayle Chinnick broke through on a breakaway, tucking the puck into the net to give the Bold the lead.

With five minutes remaining in the period, Ava Caputo tipped the puck in to secure her first goal on home ice.

"It's exciting being in front of a home crowd, and my sister was in the stands, so that was a cool experience," said Caputo.

The Bold entered the first intermission with a two-goal lead and carried that momentum into the second period.

The Ridgebacks gave up several penalties, offering the Bold multiple power-play opportunities. Payton Kerr capitalized on one, extending the lead to 3-0.

"Yesterday, we were okay with dumping the puck and not creating opportunities in front of the net. After the loss, we wanted to come back stronger, and we did," said Kerr.

The rest of the second period featured aggressive play from both teams, but the Bold maintained their lead heading into the final 20 minutes.

In the third period, the Ridgebacks pushed hard to close the gap, but the Bold's defense held firm. Players like Ahalya Julien-Medeiros and Chinnick used their bodies effectively to block numerous shots.

Late in the third, the Ridgebacks managed to slip one past, making it a 3-1 game.

Goaltender Alexia Stratos was solid throughout the night, making 15 saves. She has emerged as a leader in goal for the Bold this season and has been a consistent force between the pipes.

"Whether she's getting bombarded with shots or facing only nine over the first 40 minutes, she's always calm and dialed in," said Haley, praising Stratos's energy and passion for the game.

Kerr sealed the win with an empty-net goal in the final minute, bringing her total for the night to two goals.

The Bold closed out strong, securing a 4-1 victory. They now head on the road, with their first stop against the Brock Badgers on January 24. Catch the game on OUA.tv, with puck drop scheduled for 6 p.m.