Clippers leading goal scorer Michael Murtagh continues to be red hot, scoring his fourth and fifth goals of the season against Alberni Valley. The Bulldogs prevailed however in a 4-2 game on Oct.7. (Gary Dorland)

By Dan Marshall

Murtagh Shines

Clippers come up short in a 4-2 loss to the Bulldogs

Oct 7, 2023 | 10:47 PM

PORT ALBERNI — The Clippers played a hard 60 minute game but weren’t rewarded on the scoresheet against the Bulldogs.

Alberni took a 4-2 decision for their second straight win over Nanaimo this season.

Michael Murtagh opened the scoring early for the Clippers with his fourth power play goal in six games.

In the back half of the first period Cole Bishop and Hayden Stavroff replied with Bulldogs markers to stake the home side to a one goal lead.

Mason Croucher extended the advantage to 3-1 in the middle frame before Murtagh responded just 26 seconds later with his second of the night..

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Murtagh’s goal came at 7:16 of the second period and from there Clipper goalie Tyler Hodges and the Bulldogs Callum Tung shut the door.

A Nicholas Beneteau empty net goal in the final minute iced the game for Alberni Valley.

The Bulldogs outshot the Clippers 31-29 with both teams earning three power plays.

Nanaimo went 1/3 with a man up and 3/3 killing penalties.

The Oct. 7 three stars were 1) Hayden Stavroff 2) Michael Murtagh 3) Mason Croucher

The Clippers have another five meetings against the Bulldogs to be played before the end of November.

Next up for Nanaimo is back to back road games with the Powell River Kings on Oct. 13 and 14.

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