Fast start lifts Thunderbirds

A three-goal opening period lifted the Soo Thunderbirds to a road victory on Friday night.

After opening up a 3-0 lead through 20 minutes, the Soo Thunderbirds cruised to a 7-3 victory over the Espanola Express Friday at the Espanola Regional Recreation Complex.

Brendan Miller and Lucas Theriault has two goals each for the Thunderbirds while Noah Boman, Steven Bellini, and Nick Smith added a goal and an assist each. Tyler Malpass assisted on a pair of goals. 

Goaltender William Anderson stopped 18 shots for the Thunderbirds.

Bret McInal had a goal and an assist for Espanola. Logan Fennema and Chase Lammi also scored.

Joel Rainville got the start in goal for Espanola but was pulled after surrendering three goals on nine shots. Ryan Hale entered the game and stopped 21 of 25 shots the rest of the way.

The Thunderbirds return to action on Sunday on home ice against the Elliot Lake Wildcats. Puck drop at the John Rhodes Community Centre is set for 7 p.m.