It wasn't the start the Nipissing Lakers women's hockey was looking for when they hit the ice to kick off 2017, especially after their great 2016 portion of the season.

Despite holding a 2-1 lead late in the second period, the Lakers came out on the wrong end of a 3-2 decision, as the Queens Gaels came to North Bay and handed the Lakers just their second regulation loss of the season.

In a fast-paced first period, the Lakers allowed the opening goal, but fought back and two goals in the second half of the frame had Nipissing up 2-1.

Down 1-0, Sam Strassburger scored her fifth of the season, tying the game up just around the midway point of the period.

Just over five minutes later, Bronwyn Bolduc gave Nipissing the lead with her eighth.

The teams headed to the intermission with the Lakers holding the advantage, but the lone goal in the second period – by the Gaels – evened the game up and sent it to the final period even.

In the third, again it was Queens that would score the only goal to escape with the three points.

Nipissing outshot Queens 26-20, but came up short on the numbers that matter.

Micaela Stutzki is tagged with the loss, making 17 saves.

???????Nipissing will look to bounce back Saturday night, as they host the UOIT Ridgebacks at Memorial Gardens.

Puck drop is set for 4:30pm.