THUNDER BAY, Ont. - In a tight first game back from the break on Friday night, Laurier battled until the very end but fell against Lakehead 3-2 in overtime. Goaltender Tristan Malbouefstood on his head, playing a major role in earning a point.
The Golden Hawks struck first early in the opening frame when Bryce Sutherland beat the goalie at 1:18, assisted by Max-Antoine Melancon and Ty Petrou.
Petrou extended Laurier's lead 15:11 into the second frame, with helpers from Kai Stothers and Bryce Sutherland. James Fuchs struck back for Lakehead at 17:34, with Nicholas De Grazia following up just 21 seconds into the third to tie the game.
The third period opened with more urgency from both teams. Malte Hasselgren called the game for Lakehead two minutes into overtime, handing his team a 3-2 win.
Although a win would have been big for Laurier, lingering nerves for the first game back clearly had both teams on edge. The overtime point was paired with other positives mentioned by manager of operations and head coach Kevin Forrest. It was clear that the Golden Hawks had high energy going into this game, and the discipline they displayed counted as a win for Coach Forrest.
