What initially looked to be another lopsided win for the Ladner Pioneers evolved into tight affair with the Royal City Capitals on Thursday night.
The Pioneers opened up a 5-1 first period lead but needed some key late goals for a 10-8 victory at the Ladner Leisure Centre to improve to 2-0-0 on the season.
A pair of goals from Tyler Kirkby and singles from Dylan Lacroix, Connor Davidson and Patrick Szabo had Ladner rolling early.
The Capitals finally got on the board with nine seconds remaining in the opening frame and then scored four of the game’s next five goals.
Three times Royal City pulled within a goal in the final 20 minutes and Ladner answered each time on pair by Mike Berekoff and another from Drew Miles.
The Pioneers continue a four-game homestand to open the West Coast Senior Lacrosse League season when the Victoria Wolves visit Ladner at 5 p.m. on Sunday. Defending league champion Nanaimo Timbermen are also here next Thursday at 7:30 p.m.
Ladner defeated Victoria 17-7 back on May 4. Former Delta Junior “A” Islander standout Spencer Bromley and Kirkby each had seven points. Ryan Keith added five points, including a pair of goals.
