The Warren Mercs struck first in the SEMHL playoffs — and did it in dramatic fashion.
Warren defeated the Ile des Chenes Northstars 8-6 in Game 1 of their best-of-five quarterfinal series Feb. 14 in Ile des Chenes, grabbing an early series lead in a wide-open, back-and-forth contest.
The Northstars jumped out quickly, scoring twice in the opening five minutes on goals by Ty Naakens and Tyler Swerdyliak. The Mercs responded almost immediately. Stephen Kleysen put Warren on the board with a power-play marker before Eric Swanson tied the game just 31 seconds later.
Ile des Chenes restored the lead early in the second, but the middle frame belonged to Warren. Drake Lindsay evened the game, Johnny Lazo gave the visitors their first lead and Josh Roche extended it, sending the Mercs to the third period ahead 5-3.
The third period turned into a track meet.
The Northstars twice pulled within a goal, but Warren answered every time. Jesse Korytko restored a two-goal cushion, Gianluca Esteves netted the eventual winner midway through the period and Lazo added his second of the night for insurance.
Evan Baty made 34 saves to earn the victory in goal, while Matthew Radomsky took the loss after allowing eight goals on 36 shots. Warren finished 1-for-5 on the power play and held Ile des Chenes scoreless on two opportunities.
The Mercs now carry a 1-0 series lead.
Game 2 was scheduled for Feb. 16 in Warren after press time. The series continues Feb. 18 in Ile des Chenes before returning to Warren on Feb. 21 if necessary, with a deciding Game 5 set for Feb. 22 in Ile des Chenes if required.
The winner advances to the SEMHL semifinal round later this month.
