The Clippers season is on the line after a 5-2 loss in Game 3 to the Chilliwack Chiefs. Brody Waters and Jake Hewitt scored both of Nanaimo's goals in the third period. The Clippers face a must win Game 4 April 19 in Chilliwack. (Gary Dorland)

By Dan Marshall

On the Brink

Clippers have backs against the wall after third straight playoff loss to Chiefs

Apr 18, 2023 | 10:13 PM

CHILLIWACK — The Nanaimo Clippers are on the verge of being swept out of their second round series with the Chilliwack Chiefs.

Nanaimo is down 3-0 after a 5-2 setback in Game 3.

The Chiefs opened the scoring in the final minute of the first period with a chance off the right wing for defenceman Brian Morse.

It came just moments after the Clippers Kai Daniells was stopped cold on a breakaway by Chiefs netminder Lucas Szyszka.

The Chiefs scored again in the opening minute of the middle frame when Michael La Starza swept in on the left side and snapped a quick shot behind goalie Aidan Campbell.

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Chilliwack took full control later in the period on a point shot tally by Duncan Ramsay.

The Clippers also had a disallowed goal in the second after it was deemed Jeremie Payant batted in a shot with his glove.

Nanaimo made a strong push at the start of the third period on a rebound goal by Brody Waters, it was his team leading fifth goal and twelfth point of the playoffs.

But from there the teams traded offense.

Olivier Beaulieu, the Clippers Jake Hewitt shorthanded and Dylan Kinch closed out the scoring.

The Chiefs outshot the Clippers 32-21 with Nanaimo going 0/4 on the power play and Chilliwack ending up 0/3.

Game 3 marked the first time in the 2022-23 regular season and playoffs the Clippers had lost three consecutive games.

Their season will be on the line in Game 4 on Wednesday April 19 at 7 p.m. in Chilliwack.

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