This Saturday afternoon, the Waterloo Warriors took on the Windsor Lancers in their second game of the season. With the excitement of a new season still in the air, both teams hit the ice ready to compete, eager to establish momentum early on. 

From the moment the puck dropped, the intensity was palpable as both teams fought for control, eager to set the tone for the match. Just a minute in, Lyndsy Acheson (Summerland) and Tatum James (Stratord) nearly found the back of the net after an elite passing play. The scoring opened when Sarah Bestic (Waterloo) executed a huge fore check on a penalty kill zone clear, forcing a turnover from the Windsor defense. Bestic then made a crisp pass into the slot, leading to a tap-in by Gracey Smith (Waterloo) for a short-handed goal. As the first period drew to a close, Bestic won a pivotal face off, dropping it back to Faith Mitchell (Stirling) in the high slot, who skillfully placed the puck into the net, extending the Warriors lead to 2-0.

The Lancers increased their efforts in the second period, applying more pressure on the Warriors. Their persistence paid off late in the period when they scored after a quick pass from the corner to the slot, resulting in a quick shot and goal. As the period ended, the Warriors held onto their lead, with the score at 2-1.

Into the third period the Lancers energy continued to keep the pressure on. The Warriors chances came on quick rushes and offensive possession was limited. Nearing the end of the period the Lancers scored again to make the match tied at 2-2 in the final minutes. With just three seconds left in play the Lancers received a penalty, leading to an offensive zone face off for the Warriors. In this crucial moment, Waterloo took a timeout to regroup. Off of the face off win back to the point, Acheson had a quick chance and put the puck on net but the goalie managed to control the possession despite the Warriors having great pressure.

In overtime, the Warriors controlled the play. The game winning goal was a snipe by Leah Herrfort (Palmerston) who looped around the top of the slot, deked around a defender, and launched it to secure an overtime win making today's final score 3-2.

Up next the Warriors take on the Queen's Gaels on Saturday, October 19 at the Dan Snyder Arena in Elmira.