In exhibition play, the Nipissing Lakers Ringette Club defeated Laurentian 6-0 on Saturday night.

Playing in front of a lively crowd of about 100 people at Pete Palangio Arena, the Lakers came out full speed and never let up. In the first period, Lauren Blinkhorn received a beautiful blind back pass and scored on a quick shot to the short side, catching both the defence and the Laurentian goalie by surprise for the first goal of the game. Nipissing dominated the play but the score was only 1-0 in favour of the Lakers after one period.

In the second period, Nipissing continued to outskate the Voyageurs and this time, their offensive chances turned to goals, outscoring the visitors 5-0.  Jaime Wilson ducked between 2 defenders and fired home a great goal in the 5-hole.  Not to be outdone by her teammate, Melissa Parks also scored 5-hole after being set up by Britney Bujold.  Olivia Parker got in on the action using a pick from Wilson to score short side on the ice.  Michela Roman fired a shot from the high slot that was deflected off a defender and into the net. The last goal was credited to Katie Davidson on a hard shot along the ice.

Throughout the game, any time Laurentian was in the Nipissing zone, the defence lead by veterans Michela Roman and Kaylee Flynn and ably supported by newcomers Michelle Williamson, Olivia Parker and Madison Small prevented most chances that Laurentian had to score.  And then, whenever Laurentian got a shot on goal, goalies Emma Small (first period) and Savannah Baker (second period) shut the door. 

"It was a great warmup for Oshawa next weekend," stated coach Alyssa Dean. "Since Oshawa is a qualifier for the University Challenge Cup, it will be important to do well."

Nipissing will be playing Brock, Trent, Western, Carleton and Guelph in Oshawa Nov 2-4. The results of this event will help to determine where teams are ranked going into the University Challenge Cup over the Christmas break.