Lakers doubled by Lions

The Nipissing Lakers dropped their second straight game to begin pre-season action, as they were doubled up 4-2 by the York Lions at the Memorial Gardens.

It was a tie game for most of the afternoon before the Lions pulled away with a pair of goals in the final six minutes.

"Definitely more of a sandpaper game today," explained McParland.

"Quick turnaround was a factor for sure. Some of the new guys who were really impressive last game were tired today. That will happen though as these guys get their legs back. York is also a very physical team so this is the type of game to expect when they play them."

That physical play caused some tempers to flare in the final seconds, as players from each team got into a scrum and gloves were dropped.

"I turned my head and saw one of our players get jumped," said defenceman Brodie Beard - who was involved in the scrum.

"This is a league with no fighting so it's never fun when you see that."

One major and three minor penalties were called and McParland doesn't expect any further discipline to be handed down from the league.

Jason Gray and Chad McQuaid scored both of the Lakers' goals, while McKenzie Miles, Ben Alavie, Ben Rubin, and Nate Fleming provided the offense for the Lions.

Billy Stone and Matt Hache both started in goal and once again it was Hache who shone.

He followed up yesterdays strong performance by making several nice saves in the final period and a half he played.

And with Kyle Cantlon out for 10-14 days Hache's strong play has certainly come at a good time.

"Matt has looked like a new guy this year. He came into camp in great shape and so far he's played two great games," said McParland.

Gray opened the scoring for the locals with a nice goal, as he streaked in from the blueline and slipped a backhand past a down and out goaltender.

That lead wouldn't last long however and six minutes later Miles flipped a juicy rebound into a gaping cage after Stone had stopped the initial point shot.

Both teams would trade goals in the second period and the game would remain tied until there was just under six minutes left, when Rubin jammed a rebound past a scrambling Hache.

A misplay by Hache moments later sealed the win for Lions, as he turned the puck over behind the net to Fleming and all he had to do was tap the puck into the open net.

Next action for the Lakers is Friday night at 7 p.m. when they host RMC.

Game Notes:

- Lakers captain Matt Lahey is expected to return for next weekend games