The London Lakers and Halton Ravens did battle Friday night at London Sports Park, commemorating London’s inaugural home opener.
In what turned out to be a physical affair, the Ravens edged the Lakers 7-5 in a rough and high scoring contest.
“A much better team effort against a top notch, GMHL team who’s loaded with older players,” said Lakers head coach Jeff Zehr after the game.
“As of now we are a younger team which never gave up and battled not only for ourselves, but for each other. We are growing as a team, and growing as a family.”
Chris Rodo scored a pair of goals for the London Lakers in the loss, while defenseman Ryan Emerson had a goal and an assist.
Also scoring for the Lakers were Garrett Hodgson and Jonathan DaSilva, while newly signed veteran blueliner Brett Dyck had a pair of assists.
Rio Virgoe was solid in net for the Lakers stopping 39 shots.
Off the ice, the evening was also a success for the London Lakers.
“We had tremendous fan support for our first game,” says Director of Player Personnel and Scouting Ian Kennedy.
“It was nice to see such a good, and involved group of fans for our first game. London Sports Park was spectacular, offering game night food and drink specials at the bar, our volunteers stepped up, and it’s only going to get better every night,” added Kennedy.
“We’d also like to thank the City of London, and Ward 1 Councillor Michael Van Holst for supporting us, and participating in our pre-game ceremony.”
The London Lakers are back in action Sunday in Kingsville before playing a home and home against the Toronto Blue Ice Jets next weekend.