Zach Poirier of the North Bay Battalion. Photo by Aaron Bell/OHL Images

Despite getting goals from four different players, including Zach Poirier (Photo by Aaron Bell/OHL Images) the Battalion fell just short against the Soo Greyhounds in a 5-4 loss last night (Thursday) at Memorial Gardens.

The game was tied four times but the Greyhounds netted the winner in the final five minutes and North Bay couldn’t answer back.

Battalion Head Coach Stan Butler says the Troops made too many mistakes and they need to find ways to bring up their compete level.

But he added, it’s up to the players to make it happen.

It’s a third straight loss for the Battalion who led 2-1 in the 2nd but tried to play catch up the rest of the night after the Greyhounds took over with a 3-2 advantage mid-way through the 2nd period.

It was the fifth straight game the Battalion only dressed five defenseman due to suspensions and injuries.

Butler was asked if that’s becoming a factor.

Jake Smith made 24 saves on 29 shots in the loss.

The Troops got goals from Brett McKenzie, Steve Harland, Mike Amadio and Zach Poirier.

Butler was coaching in his 1400th CHL game, and was asked if it’s disappointing to lose in a milestone game.

The Troops get set to take on the Barrie Colts tomorrow (Saturday) in Barrie.