While the score was likely higher than many would have predicted, the Nipissing Lakers women's hockey team doesn't mind.

The Lakers came up with a big victory, doubling up on their rivals, the Guelph Gryphons 6-3 Friday night at Memorial Gardens.

Led by Maria Dominico's hat-trick, the Lakers picked up their 13 th win of the season, as they continue the battle for home ice in the post-season.

Nipissing was first to get on the board, as Bronwyn Bolduc continued her impressive 2018, picking up her ninth goal of the season.

Jade Gauthier and Madison Solie grabbed assists on the goal.

The Gryphons replied and tied the game, but Nipissing wasted little time getting the lead back.

Just 23 seconds after Guelph tied the game, Dominico made it 2-1 Nipissing, set up by Zosia Davis and Sam Strassburger.

Midway through the second period, the Lakers extended their lead to 3-1 thanks to Katelyn Heppner's first OUA goal, which came unassisted on the power play.

Up 3-1 after two, the Lakers looked to close things out in the third, but Guelph had different plans and scored twice before the 10 minute mark to tie the game at three.

From there, however, Nipissing elevated their game.

Dominico scored twice and Gautheri added an empty-netter to seal the win and grab the full three points.

Kaley Tienhaara, Bolduc and Strassburger all earned assists on the final three tallies for Nipissing.

Jackie Rochefort picked up the win, finishing with 14 saves, as the Lakers outshot the Gryphons 25-17.

The Lakers are back at it Saturday night, when they host Brock at 7:30pm.