Lakers win 9-8; Take 2-0 Series Lead

The defending Mann Cup champion Peterborough Century 21 Lakers flexed their offensive muscles in Game 2 of their MSL semi-final series with the Brampton Excelsiors going on a six straight goal scoring steak at one point.  John Vezina gave the home team Excelsiors an early 2-0 lead before the seven-minute mark.  It was the only time in the game that Brampton led. The Lakers scored 4 straight goals including two on the power-play and one shorthanded to take a 4-2 lead by the end of the first period.

Peterborough continued their scoring streak scoring the first two goals of the second period to open up a 6-2 lead. Brampton battled back and the period ended with a 6-4 Laker lead.  The teams exchanged goals three times and Excelsiors won the third period 4-3.  With 1:40 left, Brampton tightened the score to 9-8, but were unable to get another goal to tie the game.

Mark Matthews led the Lakers offensively with 1 goal and 6 assists.  Thomas Hoggarth, Holden Cattoni and Cory Vitarelli each scored twice.  Single markers came off the sticks of Corey Small and Josh Currier.  Goaltender Matt Vinc recorded the victory in nets for Peterborough.

For Brampton, sensational rookie Jeff Teat scored once and had 5 assists.  John Vezina netted a hat-trick.  Michael Burke, Phil Caputo, Jordan Dance and Clarke Petterson each had a single goal.

The series resume Thursday in Peterborough.  You can watch the game on www.lacrosse-tv.com