The Bears, who are still searching for their first win of the season, were looking to gain revenge against league leaders Newcastle after going down 4-2 in their last encounter two weeks ago.

Sydney came out firing on all cylinders, and the home fans didn’t have to wait long for a goal, with Canadian import Kurtis Dulle skating gracefully around the post to slide it past the confused Newcastle keeper.

The Bears continued to dominate the most part of the first period with some excellent passing and offensive awareness, but failed to capitalise on their chances.

A scorching long-range slapshot from Newcastle import Brian Bales levelled the scores with only seconds remaining in the period, undoing all the hard work by Sydney.

The North Stars carried over their newly found momentum in the second period, scoring two more quick goals through import Justin Chwedoruk and defender Matt Price.

But the Bears were able to consolidate towards the end of the middle period through captain Michael Schlamp, after some great end-to-end hustle from rookie teammate Lucien Hackett set up the deflection for the big forward to slot it home and take the score to 3-2 in favour of the visitors.

Newcastle stepped up a gear though in the final period, scoring twice more through Chwedoruk and fellow import Scott Thauwald, and putting the result beyond doubt.

Sydney captain Schlamp says his team are struggling with consistency, and doesn’t want it to become a habit.

“At the moment it’s a bit mix-and-match, but hopefully when we get our new imports playing they will make a difference”, he said.

The Habitat Furniture 3 Stars of the game went to: 

1. Kurtis Dulle
2. Adrian Esposito
3. Michael Schlamp

The Bears will next host the Gold Coast Blue Tongues at Penrith Ice Palace on Sunday 22nd May at 5pm.    

Article by: Huntley Mitchell