Nanaimo Clippers spoiled the home opener for Powell River Kings on Friday, October 8, skating to a 6-2 win at Hap Parker Arena to open the 2021/2022 BC Hockey League season.
After the Clippers opened the scoring on a power play at 8:16 of the first period, Mark D’Agostino replied for the Kings 40 seconds later with his team’s first goal at home since March 2020, just prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Nanaimo took control of the game in period two, scoring twice in less than a minute at 7:35 and 8:19, then padded the lead with two more goals by the seven-minute mark of the final frame for a 5-1 lead.
Parker Lalonde cut the lead to 5-2 with 8:22 remaining in the game but the Kings were unable to convert any more chances on Clippers’ goaltender Cooper Black, who stopped 33 of 35 shots. His teammates added the sixth goal on another power play with just over a minute remaining.
Zak Brice also faced 35 shots in the Powell River net, turning aside 29.
Kings’ goals came at even strength, with Nathan Small assisting on both. Powell River's five power play opportunities were unsuccessful on the night. Clippers converted two of their four power plays.
Hunter Andrew and Anthony Lucarelli had one assist each for the home team.
Attendance was 789.
The two teams meet again tonight (October 9) in Powell River. Game time is 7 pm.
