Season begins on a high for SFU, Cascades

Last year's finalists for the BC Intercollegiate Hockey League Championship have taken the first step in making a repeat appearance.

On Friday, Simon Fraser University received equallt strong performances at both ends of the rink in an 8-0 win over Trinity Western. One night later, the University of the Fraser Valley shut down the same Titans squad by a 6-3 score.

SFU was led Friday by a hat-trick from winger Jaime Laprise, who haul included a second period penalty shot. Rookie defenceman Iain Stewart added a goal and two assists while netminder Garrett Lee turned aside all that came his way for the shutout.

On Saturday, the Cascades rode a familiar pair to two points. Rob Vos and Kyle Krunick, who finished one-two in league scoring last season, each contributed five-points efforts. And the duo, who lost linemate Dan McIver to graduation, appear to have a suitable replacement in former Langley Hornets forward Darren Olson, who scored once and added three assists versus Trinity.

All three Lower Mainland teams will return to the ice this weekend when the Universty of Victoria visits for a trio of games. The Vikes will play Trinity Western on Friday, Simon Fraser on Saturday and Fraser Valley on Sunday.