NANAIMO – The Clippers were in another tight low scoring game on Friday.
But in the end the Vernon Vipers won 4-1, padding the score with a pair of empty net goals.
It was Nanaimo’s sixth loss in a row.
There was no scoring in the first period with the Vipers outshooting Nanaimo 9-7.
Jordan Naylor had the tougher saves and was very sharp after sitting out the last game against Victoria with a minor injury.
The Clippers opened the scoring in the second period with a power play marker by Hunor Torzsok when he beat Aidan Porter in close.
It looked like that lead might stand up into the intermission break but Ben Sanderson and Matt Kowalski scored late goals 20 seconds apart to give the visitors a 40 minute lead.
That lead held up through the third period until empty netters by Jesse Lansdell and Josh Latta.
Vernon outshot Nanaimo 27-23, while the Clipper went 1/1 on the power play and 2/2 killing penalties.
Friday’s Three Stars were Josh Latta (1g 2a), Matt Kowalski (1g), and Jordan Naylor (23 saves).
Next up the Clippers host the Penticton Vees on Sunday afternoon.
Nanaimo was just in Penticton on January 12thwhen the Vees pulled off a 4-1 victory.
It will be a special game for former Vees Sammy Steele, Marcus Mitchell, and Devon Mussio.
Friday’s game was also a milestone for Mussio who played his 150thgame in the BCHL.
dan@nanaimonewsnow.com
On twitter: @danmarshall77
