Mona Shores opened its hockey season with a 4-2 home loss to Rockford, despite tying the game in the second period and creating several scoring chances. Eli Lubbers scored both Sailors goals on the power play, while goalie Willis Nolan made 28 saves. Coach Chris Benedict praised the effort but said the team needs to tighten up defensively and finish more chances.

By the Numbers
  • Final score: Rockford 4, Mona Shores 2.
  • Shots: Rockford 31, Mona Shores 26.
  • Willis Nolan made 28 saves.
  • Eli Lubbers scored twice, both on the power play.
Yes, But

Mona Shores had opportunities to change the outcome, including shots off the posts, but struggled to convert. Nolan kept the game close with several key saves, though Rockford pulled away in the third period.

What's Next

Mona Shores travels to Caledonia on Friday for its O-K Conference opener. Benedict said the team will focus on cleaning up its defensive-zone play.

Bottom Line

The loss exposed finishing and defensive issues, but Mona Shores showed it can generate chances; improving those details will be key as conference play begins.