REGINA, Sask. - The University of Regina men's hockey team fell victim to a massive first period as Mount Royal scored five goals in the opening frame on the way to an 8-2 victory at The Co-operators Centre on Friday night.

Jesse Lees led the charge for MRU, as the blueliner picked up an impressive four goals in Mount Royal's seventh win of the season. Brad Kennedy chipped in with a goal and three assists while Luke Simpson, Tanner Olstad and Connor Rankin also had goals.

Zach McPhee and Cody Fowlie replied for Regina, as the Cougars fall to 3-12-2 on the season.

Michael Herringer made the start in goal but was chased after allowing four goals on eight shots. Dawson MacAuley came on in relief and stopped 33 MRU efforts. Cam Lanigan was solid at the other end, making 25 saves on 27 shots.

Lees opened the scoring just 1:13 into Friday's contest, scoring on a point shot where Herringer was heavily screened in front. Olstad made a nice move to add to the lead before Kennedy, Lees and Rankin netted markers to stretch the lead to 5-0 after the first period.

Simpson and McPhee exchanged goals near the start of the second period before Lees added his third at the 15:02 mark. Fowlie notched his seventh of the season as Zak Zborosky picked up his second assist of the night at 18:42.

Lees added the finishing touches at 6:21 of the third on a goal that was almost identical to his first of the night.

The Cougars and Mount Royal will renew hostilities on Saturday afternoon with a 3 p.m. puck drop at The Co-operators Centre.