The Maple Ridge Burrards got three more goals from Ben McIntosh in Victoria on Wednesday, but fell 9-4 to the Shamrocks in the fifth and deciding game of the WLA championship.
The Burrards were shutout in the first period, then got two goals from McIntosh and another from Jarrett Davis in the second, but were outscored 4-1 in the third as Victoria advanced to the Mann Cup – the national senior men’s lacrosse championship.
The Shamrocks went 4-8 on the power play in Game 5, while the Burrards were 0-4.
McIntosh scored half of the Burrards’ goals in the series against Victoria, including nine of the team’s last 11. He had 14 goals in the five games, and led the WLA with 27 playoff goals total.
Frankie Scigliano stopped 40 shots in Game 5 and a standout throughout the playoffs for the Burrards, who had advanced to the WLA final for the first time in 23 years.
Supporters expressed their appreciation on Twitter following the final game.
Nick Stone wrote: “Not the way we wanted it to end but couldn’t be more proud of the boys and how we battled this year. Can’t wait for next season. #burrards.”
• WLA commissioner Casey Cook said: “#Congratulations to @Burrardslax for a great playoffs, and a super season in 2014. Tremendous growth in the organization in many aspects.
• And Jake Elliott said: “Lots to be proud of for @Burrardslax this season. The future is bright in the Ridge with some great young talent and a solid coaching staff.”