The York University men’s hockey team began its hunt for a second straight Ontario University Athletics Championship this week when the Lions faced the Lakehead Thunderwolves in the best-of-three OUA West Semifinals. Game one of the best of three series took place Wednesday night in Thunder Bay.
In a tension-filled game, Lakehead’s Jeff Richards scored a goal at 13:30 of the second overtime period and lifted the No. 9-ranked Lakehead Thunderwolves to a 3-2 victory over the visiting York Lions. Game two of the series is scheduled for Saturday at 2pm at the Ice Gardens, with game three, if necessary, also taking place at the Ice Gardens on Sunday at 2pm.
The Lions and the Thunderwolves have met only 11 times in their history, with Lakehead holding a slight 6-5 advantage. York roared into the post season having lost only once in its last 12 games (6-1-5-0). Lakehead advanced to the West Semifinals after eliminating the Guelph Gryphons, 2-0, in their best-of-three OUA West Quarterfinals last week.
Left: Lions captain Steve Chabbert
The Thunderwolves and Lions have met twice this season with the teams splitting the two games at York. In the first contest, Lions goalie Kevin Druce made 34 saves and captain Steve Chabbert scored the game-winner late in the third period as the Lions skated to a 2-1 win. In the second game, York racked up 44 minutes in penalties and Lakehead made the most of their power play opportunities, registering three goals with the man advantage and blanking the Lions, 6-0.
Tickets for the games at York are $5 for adults and $3 for students and seniors. They can be purchased one hour prior to game time at the Ice Gardens.
This article was sent to YFile by Stephen Reid, information assistant, York Sport.