The Sudbury Cubs were not about to let a few cosmetic changes trick them into believing things would be different.
Facing the Kirkland Lake Gold Miners for the first time since the new entry in the NOJHL stepped up to replace the Kirkland Lake Blue Devils franchise, which folded mid-season, the Cubs featured a tried and true formula.
A little input from the league's top trio (Nick Esposto netted a hat trick), a nice mix of secondary scoring (Darcy Haines opened the scoring with a pair of first-period markers) and some top-notch goaltending (Jeremie Pominville was named number one star with 35 saves) did the trick.
Brandon Scott (Sudbury) and Shayne Jackson (Kirkland Lake) also tallied in the final frame as the hometown Cubs secured a solid 6-1 win over the visiting Miners.
After dropping back-to-back games to the North Bay Trappers and Soo Eagles (in overtime), the Cubs have bounced back with a home-and-home sweep of Kirkland Lake, though a stiffer test now lies ahead.
The NOJHL Divisional leaders will clash Saturday night in Sault Ste. Marie as the Cubs battle the Soo Thunderbirds in what many believe could be a preview of the league final.
Jordan Carroll added two assists last night, increasing his league-leading point total to 114 while teammate Jamie Haines remains 10 points back, also picking up a pair of helpers.
Sudbury is back at home next Wednesday, facing the Abitibi Eskimos at 7:30 p.m. at the McClelland Arena in Copper Cliff.
Posted by Laurel Myers
