Despite a strong effort, the Sarnia Legionnaires dropped a 6-4 decision in their opening game of the GOJHL playoffs against the top-seeded Nationals in London.
Nolan DeGurse led the way for the Legionnaires with two goals and two assists.
Joseph Ferrera scored and dished out three assists, while Josh Barraclough also had a goal.
The game was tied 2-2 after the first period before Sarnia jumped out to a 4-2 second period advantage.
The Nationals stormed back with four goals in the final frame, including an empty netter, to seal the 6-4 victory.
Max Vinogradov scored two goals and had an assist for London. Michael Boushy scored and had two helpers. Josh Castle, Michael McKnight, and Logan Mailloux rounded out the scoring.
Nolan DeKoning made 32 saves on 37 shots in the Sarnia net. Brock Baier turned aside 31 of Sarnia's 35 shots.
The Legionnaires scored all four of their goals with the man advantage on eight chances. London also had four powerplay goals on 11 opportunities.
The two teams meet up again for game two of the series on Thursday night at Sarnia Arena.
You can hear all of the action live on CHOK.