Written by Scott Johnson
The defending East Division Champions, Huron Perth Lakers opened up their regular season this past Saturday at home against Cambridge. After a scoreless first period, the Hawks opened the scoring 3 minutes into the second period. Despite outplaying Cambridge, the Lakers failed to capitalize on numerous opportunities with the man advantage, and allowed a powerplay goal with just over 3 minutes left in the game. The Hawks would add an empty-netter to close out a 3-0 victory over the Lakers. Goaltender Brock Baier was solid throughout the penalty filled game. Huron Perth were 0 for 8 with the man advantage, and 6 for 7 on the penalty kill.
Sunday, the Lakers travelled to Kitchener and earned a 3-2 win. After a scoreless first period, Tanner Johnson opened the scoring re-directing a Tanner Hertel pass from the corner with 4 minutes left in the second period. Kitchener responded just over a minute later to tie the score at 1-1 after 2 periods. Defenseman Isaiah Waxman put the Lakers ahead early in the third period, as his quick shot from just inside the blueline hit a defender and eluded the Kitchener goalie. Scott Stovel earned the assist on the play. The Rangers would tie the game two minutes later, scoring a shorthanded goal on an individual rush. Ashton Stockie scored the game winner deflecting a Ben Derrough shot from the point, while on the powerplay, with 8 minutes left. Blair Butchart also assisted on the goal. Baily Paquette was strong throughout and picked up the win between the pipes. The Lakers finished finished 1 for 4 on the powerplay and killed off the only penalty the team had taken.
Huron Perth takes on Hamilton Sunday night in Stratford.
Written by Scott Johnson