The Lakeland Eagles Varsity Hockey team notched an inspired win over Walled Lake Western on Thursday night. The final score of 4-1 was the result of a very hard fought 51-minute battle.

Lakeland jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the first period. Senior Fisher Christian led off the scoring on a power play wrist shot with an assist to Junior Luke Weinberger. Weinberger also assisted on the second goal scored by Mitchell Beller with Ben Barkholtz credited for the 2nd assist. Senior Spencer ‘Sarge’ Pickett finished off the period’s scoring from Christian.

The Warriors came out roaring in a second period marred by penalties – five for each team. Western notched their only goal of the night on a laser snap shot during one of their odd man advantages. But one goal was all Senior goalie Caden Pierson would allow on the evening turning back 25 of 26 shots on net. Assistant coach Matt McElwee: “Goaltending and strong team defense was the difference last night. Our guys fought all game for Caden. We challenged every shot. I think Barkie (Barkholtz) laid out and blocked a shot in the 3rd with his head”.

WLW continued to pressure LHS in the third and the game was contested until the Eagles killed off a 5-minute major penalty. During the PK, Lakeland managed to salt away the game with a shorthanded goal by Senior Kyle Sierota from Weinberger (3rd of the night).

From head coach Tim Ronayne on the win: “Every game is a battle and league games even more so. It was a remarkable win and I’m extremely proud of our team and especially of Pierson’s contribution in the pipes. Our leaders led by example and the entire team bought in to our game plan.”

The 2-1-1 Eagles meet in-rink rival Walled Lake Northern on Saturday night at Lakeland Ice Arena. Game time is 8 pm.