The Nanaimo Timbermen got a bit of a reality check to start the season.
The city’s B.C. Junior A Lacrosse League team had to start the 2012-13 campaign against two of the league powerhouses, and suffered back-to-back losses.
The junior A T-men fell 11-4 to the Coquitlam Adanacs in their home opener Saturday, then dropped a 10-4 decision the next day on the road against the New Westminster Salmonbellies.
Saturday’s contest was played in front of one of the largest lacrosse crowds in Nanaimo in recent years.
“I think nerves affected some guys pretty good. I know it did to me [when] I looked up,” said Mitch Parker, Timbermen player.
Coach Dale Nicks said the visitors looked like the more polished team in the opener.
“We’ve got a bunch of guys that we’re just sort of putting together and they’re learning how each other plays,” he said.
The coach felt fitness was an issue, as his team had trouble with the long line changes in the second period, and also got beat to too many loose balls.
“That’s a huge thing,” said Nicks. “You get second chances every time you get a loose ball.”
Evan Benham scored the first goal of the season for the Timbermen and Stu Mills, Paul Brebber and Parker also tallied in the opener. Pete Dubenski played well in goal as his team was outshot 52-29.
In New West, Parker, Mills, Andrew Miller and Ryan Nicks scored goals and Dubenski made 41 saves.
GAME ON … The junior A T-men host the Salmonbellies on Saturday (May 5) at 5 p.m. at Frank Crane Arena, then play Port Coquitlam on Sunday at 2 p.m. at Frank Crane.
sports@nanaimobulletin.com
