By Ian Holmes

Buccaneers outlast Glacier Kings in 4-1 win

Oct 28, 2016 | 12:33 PM

NANAIMO — Another strong performance for the Nanaimo Buccaneers (8-9) who recorded a well-earned 4-1 victory Thursday night over the Comox Valley Glacier Kings (11-4-0-1) at the Nanaimo Ice Centre.

Nanaimo’s top line was pivotal in the victory as Chad Bell and Trent Bell scored goals early in the third period to break a 1-1 tie. Danny Pion, who centres the top unit, assisted on both of his linemates’ goals and was a force all night in the face-off circle.

“We had a slow start, really good second period and that carried over to the third. Our leaders really stepped up,” a pleased Buccaneers head coach Dan Lemmon told reporters after the game.

Dawson Heathcote scored the other Nanaimo goal, an empty-netter to solidify the Nanaimo win. John Hawthorne was rock-solid in goal, stopping 34 shots. Hawthorne is now 4-1 in his last five starts after a rocky beginning to his Junior ‘B’ career. Trent Bell’s shorthanded insurance marker capped off an inspiring effort for the 19-year-old Nanoose Bay product. He was high-sticked, which knocked out several teeth, according to Lemmon. Trent Bell would return with a full face shield and make a strong impact after missing most of the second period.

Danny Pion assisted on both third period tallies and was a force all night in the face-off circle to help pace the Bucs to the victory. Pion, a late cut from the Nanaimo Clippers, (BCHL) has seven points in seven games as a Buccaneer. He was named the game’s first star.

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“I’m just trying to help this team be better and I think I can….I’ve dropped here to find my confidence more, so I just need to keep going,” said Pion.  

“We’re playing really good hockey right now and you can feel the confidence in the room,” Lemmon said.

Nanaimo has indeed been playing much better, having won three straight games and five of seven. The victory was somewhat subdued as top defenseman Coleman Doney sustained what his coach believes is an ankle Injury. Doney left the game and did not return.

The Buccaneers visit the Campbell River Storm Friday night and return to the Nanaimo Ice Centre on Thursday evening, Nov. 3 versus the Oceanside Generals at 7:15.