North Stars brought back to reality

A day after a well played victory, the Soo North Stars discovered that a lot of work still needs to be done.

The North Bay Trappers took advantage of several North Stars' defensive miscues to score a 4-3 overtime win on Sunday afternoon at the John Rhodes Community Centre.

With the loss, the North Stars drop their record to a win and an overtime loss for three points after a season opening 5-2 win over the Trappers on Saturday night.

Despite allowing the Soo to rally from a deficit three times to tie, the Trappers controlled the tempo for the majority of the game and had the best chances down the stretch and into the overtime period.

In overtime, North Bay secured the win 1:17 in. Kody Carnevale was given credit for the goal on the official scoresheet although it appeared that Lance McMahon actually scored the game winner.

North Stars head coach Mike Hall was not pleased after the game and feels that his team does not have a grasp on the systems they have learned in practise.

"We taught systems last week and we realize that we have to go back and teach it again," said Hall. "They all said they understood it but it is quite obvious that they don't. It is a big change for some of these kids that played 14 minute periods (in AA) and now you start playing 20 minute periods, it takes a lot more out of you.

"The biggest things with (Sunday's) game is that is doesn't take any talent to work hard and we didn't work hard. We didn't deserve to win and we are fortunate that we got one point out of it for the overtime loss.

"But we took three of four points and it's the opening weekend so we have time to work on things. The bottom line is that we got outworked, got caught out of position and didn't take care of our own zone."

Hall also feels that the elimination of the red line in minor hockey this year may be playing havoc with the players as it changes positioning and defensive responsibilities.

McMahon open the scoring with a power play goal 4:11 into the first period. Nick Minardi scored his first of the year four minutes later to tie the game at 1-1 after one period.

Carnevale restored the lead in the second period before the North Stars' Trevor McNutt answered late in the period.

Philippe Bouchard put the Trappers back ahead 3-2 in the third period before veteran Tyler Gendron send the game into overtime with a power play goal at the 11:19 mark.

The North Stars will make their first road trip of the season next weekend with a visit to Timmins for games next Saturday and Sunday.

Next home action for the locals will be Sept. 25 and 26 against the New Liskeard Cubs.