Mike Kennedy's first BCHL goal was the game winner in a 4-3 decision over the Centennials. (Gary Dorland)
Sixth Straight Win

Clippers winning streak hits six with 4-3 victory in Merritt

Oct 12, 2019 | 11:18 PM

MERRITT – The Clippers have built up a six game winning streak after beating the Centennials 4-3 on Oct. 12.

It was a slow start for the Clippers giving up a goal to Payton Matsui 50 seconds into the contest.

Josh Bourne equalized before the three minute mark on a power play but the Cents took the lead again when Josh Kagan put a rebound behind goalie Zach Bennett just two minutes later.

Merritt took that lead into the second period until Ethan Scardina banged home a loose puck to even up the game once again.

Kyler Kovich gave the Clippers their first lead late in the second frame with a power play deflection goal.

Nanaimo led after 40 minutes despite being down five on three for an extended period and losing Tyler Williams with a game misconduct penalty.

Josh Kagan’s second of the night leveled the game again seven minutes into the third, but just a minute and seven seconds later Mike Kennedy scored his first BCHL goal to give the Clippers the victory.

Nanaimo ended the game playing just nine forwards but several depth players rose to the occasion in a character win.

The shots were 41-30 for the Centennials and the power plays were eight to four in Merritt’s favour but the special teams battle was won by Nanaimo going 2/4 on the man advantage and 8/8 on the PK.

The Clippers were without Travis Walton who served the first of a two game suspension for a blow to the head call Oct. 11 in Prince George.

They inserted Nanaimo product Mitchell Finner into the lineup, but the North Island Silvertip played only limited minutes.

Nanaimo finishes their three game road trip Oct. 13 in Langley against the Rivermen.

dan@nanaimonewsnow.com

On twitter: @danmarshall77