Thunder have no answer for Adanacs

A Langley Thunder defender reaches in to knock the ball away from his Coquitlam opponent during BC Junior Tier 1 Lacrosse League action at Langley Events Centre on May 20. Ryan Molag photo

The Langley Junior Tier 1 Thunder couldn’t find the consistency they needed on Tuesday night, falling 10-7 to the visiting Coquitlam Adanacs in BC Junior Tier 1 Lacrosse League action at Langley Events Centre.

Langley briefly held a 2-1 lead in the first period, but it was the only time they were ahead as Coquitlam controlled much of the game. The loss marks Langley’s second defeat in their last three outings, dropping their record to 6-2 as they approach the halfway point of the 18-game regular season. Coquitlam, meanwhile, improved to 4-1.

“Either the defence was on, or the offence was on—we just couldn’t get both clicking at the same time,” said Jameson Reed, who scored twice and added a pair of assists for Langley. “We didn’t string together enough strong shifts.”

Head coach Connar Abrams acknowledged the growing pains of a young roster. “It’s part of the process. These ups and downs are expected with a developing group,” he said. “We’ll learn from this, take the hit tonight, and move forward.”

Brayden Longacre led the Thunder offense with a hat trick and two assists, while Mason Eastgate matched Reed with two goals. Despite the offensive efforts, Langley struggled to keep pace, especially in the second period when the Adanacs pulled away.

“Overall, it’s been a solid start to the season, but maybe a bit too casual at times,” added Reed. “This loss might be the wake-up call we needed. Hopefully it sharpens our focus for what’s ahead.”

Coquitlam’s scoring was spread out, with Henrik Lucas, Alex Tan, and Darian Murray each netting a pair. Goaltender Marcus Khan kept Langley in the game with 50 saves, facing a barrage of 60 shots compared to Langley’s 40.

The Thunder won’t have much time to dwell on the loss, as they’re back in action twice more this week. They travel to New Westminster to take on the Salmonbellies on May 23, before returning home to face the Nanaimo Timbermen at the LEC on May 25. Opening faceoff is set for 2:00 p.m.

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