A 39 save performance by Chase Nixon and a three goal game from Michael Murtagh propelled the Clippers to a 4-1 triumph over the Victoria Grizzlies. (Gary Dorland)

By Dan Marshall

Defensive Gem

Clippers take back second place in Coastal Division with 4-1 victory over Grizzlies

Jan 12, 2024 | 10:28 PM

NANAIMO — The Clippers had a strong defensive effort and an even stronger performance from goalie Chazz Nixon in a 4-1 win over Victoria.

Although the Grizzlies opened the scoring 11 minutes into the game with a goal from Elliot Dutil, it was the only tally they would get.

Michael Murtagh scored twice in 17 seconds to give the Clippers the lead in the middle frame and Luke Buss added an insurance marker before the intermission break.

Murtagh completed his hat trick with a last minute empty netter, but it was Nixon who stole the show in the third.

Nanaimo. was outshot 18-5 in the period and Nixon made memorable saves siding across on Luc Pelletier, point blank on Reegan Hiscock and several others.

roster shakeup

Nanaimo Clippers lose two major players to Major Junior ranks

19m ago

armed robbery

Knife-wielding man robs south Nanaimo liquor store

8h ago

Shorthanded

Clippers fall short hosting Bulldogs

15h ago

The overall shots were 40-22 for the Grizzlies with both teams going 0-1 on power plays.

Murtagh’s hat trick gives him the lead in BCHL goal scoring with 22 and Nixon’s win ups his Clippers record to a perfect 3-0.

Nanaimo is now 3-1 against Victoria this season with another head to head matchup at the Q Centre on Jan. 13.

The Cippers will enter the game with a one point lead on the Grizzlies for second place in the Coastal Division.

Join the conversation. Submit your letter to NanaimoNewsNOW and be included on The Water Cooler, our letters to the editor feature.

info@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @NanaimoNewsNOW