The New Westminster Salmonbellies failed to close out their B.C. Junior Lacrosse League best-of-five semifinal series with the Delta Islanders, losing Game 3 by a 14-4 scoreline in Ladner on Wednesday.
Delta's Mike Mallory did most of the damage for the regular season runner-up club, scoring seven goals in a nine-point effort, including four markers in a four-minute span early in the middle period that effectively broke the back of the junior 'Bellies.
Starting goalie Frankie Scigliano was replaced by backup Spencer England following Mallory's powerplay goal at 6: 23 of the second period.
But Delta wasted no time figuring out England, as Mallory chipped in two quick ones 24 seconds apart. Sam Clare and Mallory, with his seventh of the game, both victimized England on the shortman later in the period.
Peter Dubenski was solid in the Islanders' cage, kicking out 38 New Westminster shots.
Intermediate call-up Josh Byrne led the 'Bellies with two goals and a single assist.
Game 4 is scheduled for tonight (Friday) at Queen's Park Arena. Game time is 8 p.m. If necessary, a Game 5 will be played Saturday at the Ladner Arena at 8 p.m.
In the other semifinal, defending champion Coquitlam made short work of the Langley Thunder, sweeping the series with a 14-4 victory at home on Wednesday.
