Eskis too much for Royals

Royals goalie Jim Murray poke checks Eskis forward Michael Robert. Photo by Christian Lebel.

TEMISCAMING, QC - The Temiscaming Royals built up an early 2-0 lead less than 4 minutes in but it didn't hold up as the first place Abitibi Eskimos rolled over the Royals in a 7-2 win.

Justin Kohler and Shane Golden had goals just over a minute and a half apart in the early start.

However, Justin Lafleur, Ryan McDonald and Joel Roy scored to give the Eskis a 3-2 win after 20 minutes.

Josh Clancy added a pair - one in each period - while Maxime St. Pierre and Michael Robert rounded out the scoring for the Eskis who won their 37th game of the season.

Eddie Davey allowed 2 goals but didn't have much work as he only faced 13 shots while his Royals counterpart Jim Murray was peppered with 42 shots.

The games three stars were Josh Clancy, Joel Roy and Jim Murray.

The Royals will play out the season at home with games on Friday, February 26th against the Soo Eagles at 8:00 p.m., then Saturday, February 27th at 7:30 p.m. the entertain the North Bay Trappers.