Photos: Allyson Demers
KIRKLAND LAKE, Ont. – Skating to their first season-opening win since September of 2019, the Kirkland Lake Gold Miners defeated the Soo Eagles 3-1 Friday in Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League play at Joe Mavrinac Community Complex.
With a good-sized, boisterous crowd on hand a fast-paced opening 20 minutes offered plenty of action, but neither side would convert offensively as they hit the first intermission still in search of a goal.
Heading to the second stanza, the Gold Miners generated a fore check off a dump in that led to a play put in front that Ben Lyons stuffed in past netminder Jace Knorle at 3:39 to give the home side the lead.
Tying it up on a late two-man advantage in the middle frame, the Eagles’ Anden Marceau converted from the right side as he snapped a shot by Kirkland Lake goalkeeper Glen McInnes at 18:59.
Heading to the third period, the Gold Miners were quick to retake the lead as Nathan Harper’s initial league marker came at 1:17 when he scooped up the rebound off a Tysen Anderson right point shot and shoveled it in.
Adding some insurance with 11 minutes remaining, Jake Williams picked up his opening NOJHL goal as he deposited the leftovers in close on an extended power play.
Shutting the door defensively the rest of the way, Kirkland Lake capped off the solid home-ice triumph in collecting the triumph.
