WATERLOO, Ont. – In their first game back since the extended break, Laurier's women's hockey team came out strong and fought a tough battle against the Waterloo Warriors. The Warriors took the 1-0 win though in a game that could've went either way.  
 
With 76 days off, the Hawks wasted no time proving their resilience. Laurier outplayed the Warriors for the majority of the game, with defensive and offensive systems working as a unit to connect passes and move the puck effectively.  
 
The first period ended with zeroes on the scoreboard, leaving both teams hungry for the first goal of the game. The Golden Hawks defense stood their ground and protected their net with confidence.
 
Early in the second period, the Hawks shot rapid fire at the Warriors goaltender, Mikayla Schnarr (Waterloo, Ont.), but couldn't get one past her. 

Laurier faced heavy offensive pressure as well, but another strong performance from Cohen Myers kept the puck out of the back of the net. It wasn't until late into the second period, with only four minutes remaining, when Keiara Raitt (Ancaster, Ont.) broke the goose-egg to give the Warriors a 1-0 lead.
 
The third period reflected both teams desire to win as things got more aggressive and competitive. The game resulted in a total number of 13 penalties between both teams, making for an intense Battle of Waterloo.

The Hawks remained calm and confident, working cohesively to put pressure on the Warriors, but weren't able to make a comeback. Finishing the game off short-handed, Laurier had a strong performance for their first game back and proved that they will not back down.
 
After the game, Laurier Manager of Hockey Operations & Head Coach Coach Kelly Paton credited the team's ability to come together in just two weeks after two months of non-competition.
 
"Ultimately, we're proud of the group and we're optimistic that we can continue to compete and give a great effort against the same team tomorrow."
 
Top Performers
 
Golden Hawks
Cohen Myers (Shakespeare, Ont.) – G
Making some diving saves to protect the Hawks' net, Meyers played an outstanding game and only let one puck past her despite countless attempts by the Warriors.
 
Warriors
Mikayla Schnarr (Waterloo, Ont.) – G
The Hawks were able to fire shots left and right at the Warriors' net but were denied by Schnarr on every attempt.
 
UP NEXT: 
The Golden Hawks face the Waterloo Warriors once again Saturday night at 7 p.m. at the Columbia Ice Field Arena in Waterloo. Watch the game live on OUA.tv.