Cowichan’s two men’s teams competed in their first Duncan derby of the year to open Vancouver Island Lacrosse League play this past Saturday, April 20.
It had been a back-and-forth game until the third period when the Thunder rattled off six straight goals to pull ahead.
Ultimately the Thunder beat the River Rats 11-7 at Kerry Park Arena on the strength of a six point night from runner Tyson Black. Black scored five and added a helper while teammate Devyn Zunti had two goals and two assists for a four-point night.
Singles came from Clayton Vickers, Josh Hayton, and junior B call-ups Rees Aeibischer and Kellan Mooney.
Kain Stewart stopped 28 of 35 to earn his first win of the season in goal.
On the other side of the ball, Pete Vander Dunger had two goals and three assists to lead his team with five points while Aaron Bernasky scored a hat-trick and added a helper for good measure.
Trevor Philp pitched in with two goals as well.
Ryan Brabander saved 24 of 35 shots in the Rats’ loss.
While the Thunder have to wait until May 2 for the next game when they play the Blazers on the road, the Rats suited up again on April 23 against the Firefighters. Brabander was the Player of the Game in the hard-fought battle, keeping his team in it until the final nine seconds when the Firefighters scored to pull off a 5-4 victory.
The two teams reunite at 8:30 p.m. on May 4 at Kerry Park Arena.