Lions tamed by Devils (From East London and West Essex Guardian Series)

Lee Valley Lions were defeated 6-2 by Solent & Gosport Devils.

4:39pm Thursday 9th February 2012 in Sport

A lethargic first period cost Lee Valley Lions as they fell to a 6-2 defeat against league leaders Solent & Gosport Devils.

Lions' slow start put paid to what could have been a close fought battle. Devils quickly established a strong lead as they fired four goals past netminder Steve Grout. His opposite number, Christian Cole, was nothing more than a spectator in the opening period.

Valley's performance stepped up a gear in the second period and while their defenders formed an effective barrier against the Solent attackers, the home side were still unable to get on the scoresheet.

Lions continued to struggle in the final period and it was Solent's Kevin Tanner who increased the visitors' tally further, his goal assisted by Richard Nembhard and Alex Cole.

Thanks to penalties, Lee Valley found themselves two men down. However, they not only rose to the challenge but took control of the ice. Romanas Fedotovas, Blair Dubyk and James Hatfull even managed to worry Cole in the Devils’ goal.

Solent's Canadian player Andrew Campbell inflicted further damage to put the league leaders six goals ahead with five minutes remaining.

Lee Valley continued to battle and they pushed forward to at least make a mark on the scoring. Their efforts were finally rewarded when Richard Hodge scored, followed by a second goal from Dubyk with just nine seconds left on the clock.

The game was not Lee Valley Lions' finest hour, but they will take credit for not crumbling after a shaky start. This Saturday Lee Valley host Bristol Pitbulls, the contest begins at 5.15.