After a 6-2 loss to the Royals in Reading, the Trois-Rivières Lions saw their chance to end the playoffs on Friday night.
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The Mauricie team suffered their fifth loss in eight games against their division rivals this season.
The hosts took the lead in the first period when defender Colin defeated Felix Lions goalkeeper Étienne Montpetit after six minutes.
Marc-André Bergeron’s men reacted quickly when striker Brett Stapley leveled the game with a counter-shot.
However, the Royals exploded in the second period by scoring four goals in middle engagement.
These feats were accomplished by Max Newton and Jacob Gaucher, each scoring two goals.
The Trifluviens’ only moment of joy in the second period came on a power play when William Lemay made a fine maneuver to outsmart Royals goaltender Pat Neagle.
Playing a second start among the pros, masked Lions man Étienne Montpetit faltered six times in the 30 shots he received.
Opposite Pat Neagle deflected 22 of 24 shots in his direction.
The Lions have a chance to get revenge for their poor performance on Saturday when they face the Royals again at 4 p.m.