Goal scoring hasn’t been an issue for the Hawks, who have netted 10 in their first two games. Keeping the puck out of their own net appears to be a challenge, however, as Loyola allowed five goals in each of those contests.

Defence cost Loyola in Wednesday’s season opener against T. A. Blakelock, when the Tigers scored three third-period goals to down the Hawks 5-3. Loyola bounced back Thursday to defeat the rival Abbey Park Eagles 7-5 at Glen Abbey Recreation Centre, building a 4-0 lead early before the Eagles rallied to make a game of it.

“Our guys think they can just keep outscoring teams, but it comes down to defence wins games,” Hawks coach Larry Litzgus said after the win over Abbey Park. “We’ve got all the offence we need, but we need to make sure our defence can clear the puck out a little stronger and clear out the front of the net.”

Abbey Park pulled within one goal on two occasions, but Loyola’s Dylan Cooper scored immediately after both times. Dan Kurtz, Max Bragg, Alex Germano, Carmine Chiappetta and Braydon Chow also scored for the Hawks, with Josh Wilson (two), Andrew Smith, Conor Shanahan and Tyler Schlonies replying for the Eagles.

Cooper, a former AAA rep player, is already enjoying his first taste of high school hockey.

“(Abbey Park and Loyola) has always been a big rivalry. All the fans come chirp, and it’s a fun game to play in,” he said. “This has been great, a lot of fun. We’re going to have a good year.”

John Nardozzi earned five assists for the Hawks Wednesday, with Chiappetta recording four helpers. Justin Singer earned the win in goal.

Schlonies (goal, two assists) had a three-point outing for the Eagles, who also lost their season-opener Monday, 6-5 to the E. C. Drury Spartans.

Despite the 0-2 start, Abbey Park coach Larry Rinaldo is pleased with what he’s seen so far.

“I don’t like to lose, but there’s some things coming along,” said Rinaldo, particularly happy with how the Eagles kept playing hard after falling behind by four goals to Loyola. “We had a big turnover this year, a lot of players (from last year) graduated so we’ve got some young guys. I like this team.”

Abbey Park’s next game is scheduled for Wednesday, when it takes on Blakelock at Glen Abbey. Loyola is off until Thursday, when it clashes with the St. Thomas Aquinas Raiders at Oakville Arena. Both games are slated for 3:20 p. m. starts.