By Ian Holmes

Bucs encouraged despite loss to division leading Storm

Oct 7, 2016 | 11:38 AM

NANAIMO — It was a 4-2 loss for the Nanaimo Buccaneers Thursday night to the visiting Campbell River Storm, but there was also a lot gained as a young Bucs team continues learning what it takes to compete in the VIJHL.

The Buccaneers (3-6) were within striking range of the Storm (9-2), but special teams was a big factor as Nanaimo surrendered two powerplay goals.

“You look at some of the penalties we took and a lot of them were emotional penalties and there’s no room for that in junior hockey,” said Buccaneers head coach Dan Lemmon.

Coach Lemmon was pleased with their effort, but says even brief lapses in concentration can be costly, especially against good teams like Campbell River.

Lemmon was impressed with the Bucs forecheck which sees will be key in order be successful.

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“We didn’t get a chance to capitalize on a lot of them tonight, but those pucks were there and they created turnovers and momentum for us.”

Patrick Poets and Jayden Schubert scored for Nanaimo, while Aaron Brewer, Mitchell Williams, Cam Chin and Carter Hickichi responded for the visitors.

Campbell River had a thin 2-1 lead until Williams scored a key powerplay goal with 2:01 left in regulation. The Storm have beaten the Bucs in both meetings this season and the two clubs meet again Friday night in Campbell River. Nanaimo was outshot 38-24 and were held in contention thanks to strong goaltending by John Hawthorne who made 34 saves.

“I think early in the season it was a matter of consistency, losing my focus at times in games. I think I’ve improved on that and like to think it’s coming together,” said Bucs rookie goaltender John Hawhorne.

“I think we’re close.” added Hawthorne when asked if he thinks the Bucs are in a position to compete with the VIJHL’s elite.

Nearby power outages from a fierce storm had the Nanaimo Ice Centre lights flickering briefly Thursday night. Internet service was also disrupted, which put an end to the webcast during the game.

Two new forward signings for the Bucs made their debuts Thursday night as former Storm forward Brady Chin and ex Mission City Outlaw Nate Costanguay.

After travelling to Campbell River Friday night, the Bucs visit Westshore on Wednesday, Oct 12 and then host Saanich the following night.