GORHAM, Maine - Southern Maine scored the first four goals of the game and coasted to an 8-3 victory over Norwich in men's hockey action Friday night. The loss spoiled the season opener for the Cadets (0-1).

Eric Lauriault led NU with two third period goals. Freshman Sylvain Messier netted his first career goal, when he converted on the power play late in the first period.

Southern Maine (1-0) scored four goals in the first 7:57 of the game, and were never really challenged. After Messier's goal, USM reeled off four more unanswered goals to take a commanding 8-1 lead into the third period.

Rick Cleaver added two assists for the Cadets.

Norwich will return to action on Saturday, Nov. 17, when the Cadets travel to Salem, Mass., to take on Salem State. They will drop the puck at 3 p.m.