The Windsor Spitfires started the first game of their OHL season with a strong lead but couldn’t stay ahead against the Erie Otters, losing 5-2.

During Friday’s game, the Spits scored two goals in the first 15 minutes to give them a strong lead. However, Erie was able to start their comeback quickly, tying the game in the second period, and gaining a three goal lead before the end of the third. The Otters also out shot Windsor 47-23.

Head Coach Bob Boughner says a huge downfall for the team was not being able to convert on the four or five power plays. “I thought that we tried to play sort of their game,” says Boughner. “I thought, you know, when it’s 2-0 or 2-1 you just have to keep advancing pucks and getting them deep, playing in their end. I thought we played in our end way too much and it was turnovers that cost us.”

Spits goaltender Alex Fotinos says the team got too comfortable after their lead heading into the second period. “Those are the growing pains that we are going to have to go through this year,” says Fotinos. “Being a young team you take everything in stride so we’re going to have to realize that it’s a long game … high intensity all three periods.”

Chris Marchese and Mark Manchurek each scored one goal for the Spitfires. The Spits face off against the Guelph Storm on Sunday at the WFCU Centre.