The experience of the Fort William North Stars was the difference in a 5-2 victory Thursday, spoiling the Dryden Ice Dogs home opener.
The Dogs and Stars battled back-and-forth in a hard hitting affair.
However, the Stars broke the game open in the final 3-minutes with two quick goals.
Dryden Coach Clint Mylymock says for the most part, he was pleased with the effort.
The Dogs had 11 new players in the line-up and 4 players not able to dress due to suspensions and paperwork issues with HNO.
Ben McLellan and Connor Foster scored on the powerplay for the Dogs.
It was a defensive struggle, as the Stars outshot Dryden 26-19.
Newly signed Ian Pierriere made 21-saves for Dryden.
The Dogs are back on the ice tonight (Friday) at 7:30 against Duluth.
