The Dragon hockey squad saw their season come to a close in bizarre fashion Monday night in Port Huron.
Rochester tied their pre-regional contest at two midway through the third period, and won it just 29 seconds into overtime when the Dragons scored on themselves.
Dave Johnson’s pass in the defensive zone deflected off of goalie Jason Stross and into his own net, abruptly ending Lake Orion’s season.
Coach Pat Cherry said it was a difficult way to lose, but was pretty consistent with the team’s struggles in the final week of the season, which included losses to Farmington Hills Unified and Stoney Creek.
‘We’re obviously not happy that we finished this way with a disappointing last three games,? he said. ‘We played a little bit better tonight, but not a lot better.?
Corbin Rainey scored twice in the second period, to give the Dragons a 2-1 lead, but they couldn’t hold on.
The team ends their season with a mark of 10-11-4, and a fourth place finish in their first season in the OAA I.
‘The last month and a half, we were playing some good hockey,? Cherry said of the team, prior to their untimely slide. ‘We had some really good wins.?
Among those victories was a win over Utica and two wins against Clarkston, as well as a strong showing in the Trenton Showcase.
‘We’re continuing to build our reputation,? Cherry said. ‘It’s easier to get games now against the teams we want to play.?