Lakers lose nailbiter to 'Bellies

The Burnaby Lakers played catchup all game long before falling 7-6 to the New Westminster Salmonbellies at the Bill Copeland Sports Centre on Tuesday.

Burnaby tied the Western Lacrosse Association on four separate occasions but trailed New West 7-5 midway through the final period on a goal by former Burnaby junior A sniper Tyler Kirkby.

Second star Scott Jones closed the deficit to a single goal, his second of the game, late in the frame on helpers by Laker newcomers Eli McLaughlin and first overall draft pick Josh Byrne.

Robert Church, hot off a second consecutive NLL Champion's Cup title with the Saskatchewan Rush last Saturday, had a goal and two assists for the senior A Lakers.

Burnaby outshot the visitors 20-7 in the third period but could get just one goal by 'Bellies' keeper Eric Penney. Burnaby goalie Tye Belanger had 30 saves for the Lakers.

With the loss, Burnaby's record fell to 2-2, while New West drew even with the Lakers in the standings.

Burnaby's next game is next Tuesday against the Maple Ridge Burrards at the Copeland centre.

For the game scoresheet click here: