Lakers edge Ravens

Defence in sports often means:

a. Means or tactics used in trying to stop the opposition from scoring.
b. The team or those players on the team attempting to stop the opposition from scoring.

The Nipissing Lakers epitomized the definition of defense Friday evening at the Memorial Gardens. The green and blue were up against a Nationally ranked team for the 8th time in their first 11 games. Again the Lakers displayed put together a strong team effort, and downed the 10th ranked Carleton Ravens 2-1.

The old saying 'goes good teams always find ways to win, 'and despite being outshot 35-28 the Lakers held on for the victory.

The Lakers moved to 4-3-1 on the season, and used stifling defensive game to hold a strong Ravens squad to one goal. Neither team will have time to think about the good or bad, as both side square off in Ottawa Saturday evening.

The Lakers took a 1-0 lead into the dressing room after 1 period on goal by Andrew Marcoux, who finished off a beauty wrap around from Ryan Maunu.

In the second period, Ravens forward-- Shane Bakker scored on a controversial powerplay goal mid-way through the second period. Bakker tipped in a high Brad Albert shot that looked to be a high stick, but was deemed a good goal-tying the game at 1-1. But with just over two minutes remaining in the second, 4th liner- Brandon Happeney knocked home a rebound to put the home side 2-1. The Lakers outshot the Ravens 23-19 in the second stanza.

After taking the lead in the second period, the Lakers went into defensive mode, and played a solid final 20 minutes. While Nipissing was outshot 16-5 in the third period, the defense took control of the game and kept the potent Ravens defense at bay.

Kyle Cantlon captured his first win on the season for the Lakers turning away 34 of the 35 shots he faced on the night. The start in goal was Cantlons first of the season, after suffering a dislocated shoulder in the pre-season.

With the win the Lakers move to 5-4-2 on the season and currently occupy 6th place in the East Division. After the game, head coach Mike McParland was thrilled with the defensive effort shown by Lakers, and undoubtedly proved once again that they have the capability of playing with anyone in the country.

"We have balance, and we are a little deeper this year. Last year, we played a physical game against Carleton and that wore us down." stated McParland.

"We are gaining confidence game to game."

Game Notes:

• Attendance: 1655
• Three Stars: 1st Star- Kyle Cantlon, 2nd Star- Chad McQuaid, 3rd Star- Ryan Dube.
• Josh Chamberlain will be inserted into the line-up tomorrow night.
• Matt Hache will start in goal.
• Game time 7:00 p.m. in Ottawa, against the Carleton Ravens.