LONDON, ON — The Western Mustangs came out on top in a hard-fought battle Friday night at Thompson Arena, defeating the Carleton Ravens 2–1 in overtime.
The Mustangs opened the scoring late in the first period when forward Janique LaBossiere buried a shot at 2:28, giving Western an early boost. Both teams traded chances throughout a fast-paced opening frame, with Western controlling much of the play and limiting Carleton to zero shots on goal.
The second period saw strong defensive play on both sides, with goaltender Presley Daschuk standing tall for Western to deny several Carleton rushes. Despite numerous chances, neither team found the back of the net, keeping it a one-goal game heading into the third.
Carleton tied the game midway through the final period, capitalizing on one of their few clean looks at 13:56. Western responded with shots on net but unable to break through before regulation.
In overtime, it was Kate Suitor (#19) who played the hero. After Western dominated possession early in the extra frame, Suitor picked up the puck, found open ice, and fired home the game-winner at 3:05 to lift the Mustangs to victory.
"Honestly, the puck just came right up to me," Suitor said. "I saw that opening down the ice, and I took the ice — I saw that spot, and I was like, I'm gonna hit it."
Daschuk made key saves in the extra period to keep Western alive, earning high praise from her teammates. "Huge saves by Presley," Suitor added. "She kept us in there for sure."
Head coach Brittney Howard commended her team's poise under pressure and their ability to control the tempo in overtime. "When you're able to keep possession and get line changes in three-on-three, that's what you want," she said. "We were able to keep them hemmed in, and Katie was able to capitalize. You only have so many opportunities in those moments, so I always tell the girls — go have fun, own it, and enjoy it."
The win marks Western's third victory in their last four games, as the Mustangs continue to build momentum midway through the season.
The Mustangs return to action on Saturday, November 15, for an away matchup against the Queen's Gaels in Kingston. Puck drop is set for 4:30 p.m.
