London, ON - Western fell to Laurier, 2-1, in a tightly contested matchup on Friday night. The Mustangs took an early lead with a first-period goal, but Laurier responded with two goals in the second period to secure the win. Both teams recorded 16 saves, with Western outshooting the Golden Hawks 18-17. Despite three power-play opportunities, Western was unable to convert, while Laurier remained disciplined with no penalties leading to goals. 

GAME RECAP

Western opened the first period strong with an early goal by Haylie Kirkpatrick at 4:45, assisted by Lacey Larmand, marking Kirkpatrick's fourth goal of the season. Late in the period, Laurier's Emily Olson received a two-minute penalty for body checking, granting the Mustangs a power play opportunity. The period concluded with Western leading 1-0.

In the second period, Western faced challenges as they began with a power play opportunity due to a tripping penalty on Elle Spencer of Laurier at 6:55. Despite this advantage, Western was unable to capitalize. Laurier shifted momentum with a goal by Hayley Szymanowski at 11:15, assisted by Emerie Maltby. Claire Robinson extended Laurier's lead with a goal at 15:50, assisted by Kylie Laliberte. The period concluded with Laurier leading 2-1.

In the third period, Western gained a power play opportunity at 11:38 following a hooking penalty on Laurier's Gabrielle Lehoux. However, Western was unable to convert this advantage into a goal. The period concluded without any scoring from either team.

Western Top Performers

Brooke Vaccari
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- 16 saves

Haylie Kirkpatrick
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- 1 goal

Lacey Larmand
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- 1 assist

NEXT GAME
Western is back in action on Saturday night (Jan. 24) for a 7:00 pm meeting against the Toronto Varsity Blues. Tickets are available at WesternMustangs.ca/tickets, Western students gets free admission when presenting a valid Western ONECard at the box office for entry.