Another flat performance for the North Bay Battalion losing at home 3-1 to the Guelph Storm.

Head coach Stan Butler says the message about winning doesn’t seem to be sinking in.

“We’ve talked about it numerous times and the guys say all the right things, but in life, actions speak louder than words.  It’s extremely disappointing our effort tonight,” Butler said after Thursday night’s game.

He says the team’s top players aren’t living up to that billing.

“Some of our guys that have gotta be our ‘go to’ guys this year, their inconsistency is very, very confusing, troubling and disappointing,” Butler added.

Justin Brazeau scored the lone North Bay goal.

Meantime, more injuries for the Troops.

Forward Brett Hargrave was scratched because of an upper body injury, goaltender Julian Sime (pictured) left the game at the end of the second and Jacob Ball didn’t finish the 3rd, leaving with an upper body injury.

North Bay is facing an uphill climb to the playoffs after the loss.

The 9th place Battalion are one point back of Niagara, who plays tonight against 10th place Barrie.

The Troops are in St Catharine’s tomorrow night to take on the IceDogs.