For the second time in five days, the Coquitlam Express lost to the Surrey Eagles, 4-2, Friday at the South Surrey Arena.
Last Sunday, the Express were also clawed by the Eagles, 4-1.
After a goal by Cole Melady with 26 seconds left in the first period gave Coquitlam a 1-0 lead, Surrey seized control of the game with a pair of goals in the second period while outshooting the visitor 17-4.
The home team extended its advantage to 3-1 13:50 into the final frame.
Jake Manfre got that back a minute later to pull the Express to within a goal but the second goal of the night by the Eagles Caden Cranston sealed Surrey’s fifth win in six games against their BC Hockey League Coastal division rival.
Adam Manji faced 37 shots in Coquitlam’s net, while Ajeet Gundarah made 30 saves for Surrey.
The loss was the fourth in five games for the Express since the team returned from its winter break. All of them have been on the road.
The team concludes its extended run away from the Poirier Sport and Leisure Complex tomorrow in Vernon against the Vipers before hosting the Chilliwack Chiefs Jan. 24 at noon.
