The University of Toronto Varsity Blues women’s basketball team narrowly fell 68-67 to the Winnipeg Wesmen in their third game of the University of Manitoba invitational on Sunday, October 25.

The entire game went back-and-forth, with neither team holding more than a seven-point lead on the day. The Wesmen held a slight 16-15 lead after the first quarter, however the Blues battled back to gain a four-point lead (31-27) at halftime. First-year guard Amanda Lum (Markham, Ont.) led the Blues with eight points through the first half, while veteran standout Nicki Schutz (Toronto) tallied seven.

Both teams continued to exchange baskets throughout the second half as U of T held on to a narrow 51-50 lead heading into the final frame. The Wesmen rallied and a three-pointer from Caitlyn Gooch would seal the deal as the Blues dropped their second game of the tournament.

Schutz led the Blues with 17 points and eight boards, while Lum, Emily Larson (Calgary, Alta.), Megan Stoncius (Mississauga, Ont.) and Erin McNeely (Kingston, Ont.) each tallied 11 points in the loss.

Winnipeg was led by Amy Ogidan’s 18 points. Gooch and Jessica Stromberg each had 12 in the victory.

The Varsity Blues open their 2009-10 regular season with a home and home against the Ryerson Rams next weekend. The Blues play at Ryerson on Friday, October 30, before hosting the Rams on Saturday, October 31 at the Athletic Centre Sports Gym. Game time on both days is 6 p.m.

For more information, scores and highlights on your favourite Toronto teams, please visit the home of the Varsity Blues at http://www.varsityblues.ca.