The Niagara Lock Monsters (5-2) emerged victorious over the SouthWest Cyclops (2-4) in Friday night Canadian Lacrosse League (CLax) action with an 11-7 win.
Mike Burke opened the scoring for the Cyclops, before the teams would trade a pair of goals to end the quarter with SouthWest leading 3-2. The second quarter would turn in Niagara’s favor, as two goals from Ryan Dakin (2g) evened the score at 5-5 heading into the half.
A quiet third frame offensively saw Jon Arnold (2g, 1a) continue Niagara’s momentum, netting back-to-back tallies before Eric Pitre scored for SouthWest with just two seconds remaining in the quarter.
Andrew Potter buried the eventual game-winner, putting the Lock Monsters ahead 8-6 with under ten minutes remaining in the game. Kyle Childerhose (2g) would score one of just two SouthWest second half goals late in the game, as Tim Bergin (2g) added an insurance marker for Niagara to secure the 11-7 victory.
Corey Fowler led Niagara offensively with five points (1g, 4a). Andrew Potter continues to perform for the Lock Monsters, finishing with four points in the win (2g, 2a). The 2013 CLax Offensive Player of the Year currently ranks top five league-wide in all offensive categories with 12 goals and 24 assists for 32 points.
Mike Burke led the Cyclops in a losing effort with four points (1g, 3a), adding to his team leading 29 (11g, 18a).
Reigning CLax Rookie of the Week Dave DiRuscio backstopped Niagara to victory with 46 saves. SouthWest goaltender Jay Preece was outstanding despite the loss turning aside 51 shots.
The Lock Monsters will have a chance to sweep the season series between the squads when they host the Cyclops at Seymour Hannah Arena Thursday, March 13 at 8 p.m.
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