The University of Toronto Varsity Blues men's hockey team fell 2-1 in overtime the Notre Dame Fighting Irish of the NCAA in an exhibition game on Saturday (Oct. 3) afternoon in South Bend, Indiana.

Toronto struck first in the opening period. Second-year forward Ryan Evenhuis was the goalscorer, finding the back of the net. Fourth-year forward Rylee Hlusiak got a break into the offensive zone to set up the play. Meanwhile, second-year forward Alexander Dimitriadis connected with the primary assist on Evenhuis' goal.

The Blue and White carried their one-goal lead into the second period as neither team found the back of the net in the middle frame. Despite pressure from the Fighting Irish, Toronto continued protecting their advantage with nine different Blues registering a blocked shot, including first-year defenceman Isaac Holt, who registered a game-high three blocks. Fourth-year forward Brandon Santa Juana and third-year forward Sean Clarke registered two blocks respectively.

Notre Dame continued to apply the pressure in the third period and scored a late equalizer with Cole Brown bringing the game level. 60 minutes of play was not enough for a team to score a game-winner as the afternoon affair was headed to overtime. In overtime, the Fighting Irish capitalized with a power play marker by Paul Fischer for the game-winning goal.

Between, the pipes, second-year goaltender Nick Surzycia and fourth-year backstop Jordan Fairlie continued to make 36 saves. Meanwhile, the Blues recorded 13 blocked shots.

The Blues will now turn their focus to the regular season. The journey begins on Friday (Oct. 9) night in London, Ont., when they take on the Western Mustangs. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m., with a live stream available on oua.tv.