Monday 29 December 2014

Royals Host Chiefs For A Pair

ROYALS HOST CHIEFS FOR TWO GAMES THIS WEEK
Victoria hosts the Spokane Chiefs on Friday and Saturday night.

For Immediate Release
Monday, December 29, 2014

Victoria, BC – The Victoria Royals will continue their seven game homestand when they host the Spokane Chiefs on Friday and Saturday night with puck drop for both games at 7:05 p.m.

REPRESENTING THE NATION: Royals’ defender Joe Hicketts and Head Coach Dave Lowry are with Team Canada at the World Junior Championships in Montreal and Toronto. Team Canada has played in two preliminary games in the tournament so far and has posted an 8-0 win over Slovakia and a 4-0 victory against Germany. 

Hicketts has tallied one assist in the two contests. The product of Kamloops, BC is the first Royals’ player to represent Team Canada at the annual tournament. This season Hicketts has amassed 38 points (8g-30a) in 31 games for Victoria.

MULTI-GOAL MADNESS: Victoria Royals’ forward Austin Carroll had a two goal game in a 4-0 win against the Prince George Cougars. So far this season, the Royals have held a record of 8-3-1-1 when a player has a multi-goal game. Last season, Victoria registered a mark of 12-2-1-2 when a player scores two goals in a contest. Since the Royals moved to Victoria, the club has taken part in 82 games (including playoffs) where a Royals’ player has registered a multi-goal game. In those 82 contests, the Royals have compiled a 54-17-6-5 record.

FRIDAY NIGHT

INTERMISSION ACTIVITES & PROMOS

Second intermission
-          SORA Spa Chuck-a-Puck
o   Round trip flight for two from Victoria to Pitt Meadows by Harbour Air
o   SORA Spa Package
o   Jiffy Lube Oil Change

Promo
-          SUBWAY Sandwich Stack
o   Two fans will each win a $25.00 gift card from SUBWAY

SATURDAY NIGHT

INTERMISSION ACTIVITIES & PROMOS

Second Intermission
-          SORA Spa Chuck-a-Puck
o   SORA Spa Package
o   Jiffy Lube Oil Change

Promo
-          Save-On-Foods Shopping Cart Race (Second Intermission)
o   Three Fans will compete for a grocery prize package and gift card from Save-On-Foods


Burgers and hockey, are a winning combination. Take the stress out of arranging dinner by treating everyone to a White Spot Family Pak. For $55 gets you two adult tickets, and two child tickets to a game of your choice, plus two Legendary burger platters and two Pirate Pak vouchers that are valid for any night. Visit the box-office or call 250-220-7777 to purchase your Family Pak today.

Sunday 28 December 2014

Recap: PG 0 - VIC 4

Austin Carroll had 3 points while Coleman Vollrath stopped all 38 shots he faced, as the Victoria Royals blanked the visiting Prince George Cougars 4-0 Sunday afternoon to earn a split of the weekend set.

The Royals tied the season series at 2, after avenging a 4-3 loss to the Cougars Friday.

Victoria snapped a winless in 5 skid, and remain 2nd in the BC Division, pulling 3 points ahead of Prince George.

“The monkey’s off the back now...” said Enio Sacilotto who earned his first victory as interim head coach with Dave Lowry serving as an assistant coach for Team Canada.

“We got pucks out of our own zone, got pucks deep, shots on net, we had some intensity, we were physical, we played fast, we played whistle to whistle - we played Royals Hockey.”

The Royals scored all 4 goals in the middle frame, two by Carroll and singles by Brandon Fushimi and Dante Hannoun who had a goal and an assist.  Greg Chase chipped in with a pair of helpers.

“The team just came together,” said Carroll, “…we came out just trying to win the second period, one thing lead to another, got a couple big goals and it really helped our team come together”

Vollrath earned his 3rd shut out of the year after blanking Kootenay and Prince Albert earlier this season.  16 year old Tavin Grant made 26 saves in the loss.

Victoria was 1 for 7 on the power play, while shutting down all 5 Prince George man advantages.

The Royals were without Joe Hicketts (WJ), Brandon Magee (upper) and Axel Blomqvist.

Carroll’s three points gives him 45 on the season, good for 7th most in the league.  His 24 goals ties him with Rockets Tyson Baillie for 3rd most overall.

Tyler Soy had an assist to push his scoring to streak to 4 games picking up 8 points (5g 3a).  Soy fought Duncan’s Josh Anderson in the third period.

Travis Brown extends his point streak to 4 games with 6 points in that span (1g 5a).

Victoria’s 7 game homestand continues with games 3 and 4 against the Spokane Chiefs Friday and Saturday.

- Marlon Martens

Prince George Cougars 0 at Victoria Royals 4 - Status: Final
Sunday, December 28, 2014 - Save-On-Foods Memorial Arena - Victoria, BC

Prince George 0 0 0 - 0
Victoria 0 4 0 - 4

1st Period-
No Scoring.

Penalties-Fushimi Vic (roughing), 2:43; Reddekopp Vic (delay of game), 5:22; Hopkins P.g (embellishment), 9:24; Palmer Vic (high sticking), 9:24; Hopkins P.g (inter. on goaltender), 12:56; Pochiro P.g (roughing), 14:48; Walker Vic (slashing), 14:48.

2nd Period-
1, Victoria, Carroll 23 (Chase, Brown), 1:36 (PP).
2, Victoria, Carroll 24 (Walker, Hannoun), 4:53.
3, Victoria, Fushimi 8 (Chase, Soy), 11:08.
4, Victoria, Hannoun 2 (Carroll), 15:32.

Penalties-Pochiro P.g (slashing), 0:04; Reddekopp Vic (10-minute misconduct), 0:04; Pochiro P.g (roughing), 5:24; Dmytriw Vic (tripping), 11:29; Bear P.g (delay of game), 19:43; Carroll Vic (roughing), 20:00; Chase Vic (10-minute misconduct), 20:00.

3rd Period-
No Scoring.

Penalties-Olson P.g (kneeing), 12:36; McNulty P.g (roughing), 13:53; Ruopp P.g (slashing), 14:02; Carroll Vic (slashing, major-slashing), 14:02; Anderson P.g (major-fighting), 14:58; Morrison P.g (illegal substitution), 14:58; Soy Vic (major-fighting), 14:58.

Shots on Goal-
Prince George 14-10-14-38.
Victoria 9-13-8-30.

Power Play Opportunities-
Prince George 0 / 5;
Victoria 1 / 7.

Goalies-
Prince George, Grant 2-3-0-0 (30 shots-26 saves).
Victoria, Vollrath 15-11-2-1 (38 shots-38 saves).

A-5,125
Referees-Steve Papp (17), Dexter Rasmussen (25).
Linesmen-Ryan Gibbons (73), Cody Wanner (56).

Saturday 27 December 2014

Recap: Prince George 4 - Victoria 3

Zach Pochiro scored twice including the winner as the visiting Prince George Cougars (18-18, 36pts) edged the Victoria Royals 4-3 Saturday night.

“Solid finish to the game, if we would’ve started like we finished - we probably would have had a different result tonight.” said Interim Head Coach Enio Sacilotto, “…at the end of the day the clock ran out on us.”

The Cougars snapped their 3 game losing streak, while extending the Royals winless slide to 5 games (0-4-0-1).

Prince George takes a 2-1 season series lead after the clubs split a pair in early November and are now to within one point of their BC Division rivals.

The two clubs will meet again Sunday afternoon at 1pm, with families invited to skate with the players following the matinee.

Victoria (17-18-2-1, 37pts) trailed 1-0 after 20 minutes, and 4-1 after 40.

The Royals got two goals from Tyler Soy, and a goal and assist from Greg Chase.  They were without Joe Hicketts (WJ), and Brandon Magee (Upper).

Coleman Vollrath got the start for Victoria and stopped 17 of 20 before being relieved by Jayden Sittler in the middle frame, who allowed 1 goal on 10 shots.  Ty Edmonds earned the win with 16 saves as the Cougars outshot their hosts 30-19.

After allowing 14 shots against in the first, and 12 in the second, the Royals held the opposition to just 4 shots in the final frame.

Prince George went 1 for 6 on the power play, scoring on a 5 on 3 man advantage.  Victoria was 0 for 5.

Tyler Soy was stopped on second period penalty shot by Ty Edmonds, but scored on his very next shift.  He runs his point streak to 3 games, collecting 7 points with 5 goals and 2 assists in that span.

Hayden Hopkins and Aaron Boyd also scored for the Cougars, while Tate Olson chipped in with a  pair of helpers.

It was the first game following the Christmas break, and it opened Victoria’s 7 game homestand.

- Marlon Martens

Prince George Cougars 4 at Victoria Royals 3 - Status: Final
Saturday, December 27, 2014 - Save-On-Foods Memorial Arena - Victoria, BC

Prince George 1 3 0 - 4
Victoria 0 1 2 - 3

1st Period-
1, Prince George, Pochiro 6 (Olson), 2:57.

Penalties-Bear P.g (holding), 0:34; McDonald P.g (checking from behind), 7:20; Carroll Vic (kneeing), 9:52; McDonald P.g (high sticking), 17:48; Reddekopp Vic (interference), 18:39.

2nd Period-
2, Prince George, Hopkins 2 (Mrkonjic, Bethune), 5:26.
3, Prince George, Boyd 2 (Olson, McDonald), 7:55.
4, Victoria, Soy 11   11:55.
5, Prince George, Pochiro 7  16:25 (PP).

Penalties-Ruopp P.g (tripping), 2:59; Jarratt Vic (cross checking), 14:51; Gagnon Vic (kneeing), 15:58; Pochiro P.g (roughing), 20:00; Fushimi Vic (roughing), 20:00.

3rd Period-
6, Victoria, Soy 12 (Chase, Brown), 10:16.
7, Victoria, Chase 7 (Fushimi, Carroll), 18:58.

Penalties-Carroll Vic (roughing), 6:10; Walker Vic (cross checking), 6:10; Harkins P.g (hooking), 13:16.

Shots on Goal-
Prince George 14-12-4-30.
Victoria 5-7-7-19.

Power Play Opportunities-
Prince George 1 / 6;
Victoria 0 / 5.

Goalies-
Prince George, Edmonds 16-14-0-0 (19 shots-16 saves).
Victoria, Vollrath 14-11-2-1 (20 shots-17 saves); Sittler 2-6-0-0 (10 shots-9 saves).

A-5,293
Referees-Derek Zalaski (8).
Linesmen-Riley Friesen (76), Kirk Van Helvoirt (107).


Preview: Prince George at Victoria, Sat. Dec.27th 2014

The Victoria Royals (17-17-2-1, 37pts) entertain the Prince George Cougars (17-18, 34pts) for a pair of back to back games this weekend as they open up a 7 game homestand following the Christmas Break.

Puck drops at 7 on Saturday and 1 pm on Sunday afternoon.

Listen on The Zone @ 91.3fm or online at cjzn.streamon.fm

It’s the third meeting of the season, with the clubs splitting a pair of games in Prince George in early November.  Victoria fell 3-2, before winning the next night 6-2.

Just 3 points separates these BC Division rivals, with the Royals ranked 2nd with 37 points, and the Cougars 3rd with 34 points.  They would face each other if the playoffs started today.

Both clubs are looking to get back in the win column, with Prince George dropping their last 3 straight, and Victoria winless in 4 (0-3-0-1).

The Cougars dropped a pair at home to the Chiefs by 5-0 and 5-4 scores, after losing 3-2 in Spokane.

Victoria picked up a point in a 7-6 shoot out loss in Everett on Dec. 17th, after falling in Seattle, and dropping a home and home to Vancouver.

The Royals were without Joe Hicketts who’s representing Team Canada at the World Juniors, and the injured Brandon Magee.  Greg Chase served a 1 game suspension versus the Silvertips.  Enio Sacilotto is the interim Head Coach with Dave Lowry serving as an assistant for Team Canada.

The Cougars are without David Soltes who’s playing for Slovakia.

Prince George is led in scoring by Jansen Harkins with 39 points, who is an ‘A’ rated skater for the upcoming draft and is on Team Orr for the Top Prospects game Jan. 22nd.

Victoria is led in scoring by Austin Carroll’s 41 points, including 22 goals – tied for 4th most in the league.

The Cougars are (5-5) in their past 10 games, while the Royals are (3-6-0-1).

Prince George is 1st in the league in penalty minutes on average per game, with Victoria 2nd.

The Cougars have a winning record on the road (8-7), while the Royals boast a (10-5-2-0) home record.

- Marlon Martens

Victoria Royals vs Prince George Cougars: Head To Head Stats Summary
  
Description
Result
Head to Head Record 2014-15 Regular SeasonVictoria 1-1-0-0Prince George 1-1-0-0
Head to Head Record 2013-14 Regular SeasonVictoria 7-1-0-0Prince George 1-7-0-0
Last 5 Years record between teamsVictoria 24-9-0-1Prince George 10-20-0-4
Victoria vs. Prince George Last 5 Years record at VictoriaVictoria 11-4-0-1Prince George 5-9-0-2
Victoria vs. Prince George Last 5 Years record at Prince GeorgeVictoria 13-5-0-0Prince George 5-11-0-2
Previous Meetings This SeasonVictoria 6 @ Prince George 2 (Nov 8 2014) Final
Victoria 2 @ Prince George 3 (Nov 7 2014) Final

How the 2 teams match up
   
 
Prince George
Victoria
Team Record17-18-0-0 -- 34 points17-17-2-1 -- 37 points
Division Ranking3rd B.C.2nd B.C.
Conference Ranking6th Western4th Western
League Ranking12th8th
Past 10 Games5-5-0-03-6-0-1
Streak0-3-0-00-3-0-1
Last Game5-0 L vs Spokane (Dec 17 2014) Final7-6 L @ Everett (Dec 17 2014) Final SO
Home Record9-11-0-010-5-2-0
Away Record8-7-0-07-12-0-1
GF107 121 
GA141 131 
PP (Overall)(24/161) 14.9(35/160) 21.9
PP (Home)(17/96) 17.7(18/63) 28.6
PP (Away)(7/65) 10.8(17/97) 17.5
PK (Overall)(54/185) 70.8(38/158) 75.9
PK (Home)(30/106) 71.7(13/62) 79.0
PK (Away)(24/79) 69.6(25/96) 74.0
Leading RookieBethune (4-5-9)Nagy (4-5-9)
Most PIMRuopp - 83Crunk - 67
Team PIM/GM19.5/Game15.6/Game
Leading ScorersHarkins (12-27-39)Carroll (22-19-41)
 Witala (17-17-34)Hicketts (8-30-38)
 Erricson (14-13-27)Brown (13-18-31)
 Morrison (12-12-24)Magee (10-19-29)
 Carvalho (1-17-18)Blomqvist (14-13-27)
Last 5 Games5-0 L vs Spokane (Dec 17 2014) Final7-6 L @ Everett (Dec 17 2014) Final SO
 5-4 L vs Spokane (Dec 16 2014) Final5-4 L @ Seattle (Dec 16 2014) Final
 3-2 L @ Spokane (Dec 13 2014) Final4-0 L @ Vancouver (Dec 13 2014) Final
 3-1 W @ Everett (Dec 12 2014) Final6-3 L vs Vancouver (Dec 12 2014) Final
 4-3 W vs Saskatoon (Dec 9 2014) Final1-0 W vs Prince Albert (Dec 9 2014) Final
Leading After 1st11-3-0-08-2-0-0
Leading After 2nd14-1-0-010-1-0-0
Tied After 1st3-5-0-05-5-0-1
Tied After 2nd1-2-0-03-1-1-0
Trailing After 1st3-10-0-04-10-2-0
Trailing After 2nd2-15-0-04-15-1-1
Out Shooting Opponents7-4-0-010-5-1-0
Out Shot by Opponents8-13-0-06-11-1-1
1-Goal Games8-2-0-07-4-2-1
2-Goal Games3-1-0-04-6-0-0
3-Goal Games3-6-0-02-3-0-0

Friday 26 December 2014

Royals Host Cougars

ROYALS HOST COUGARS FOR TWO GAMES THIS WEEKEND
Victoria hosts the Prince George Cougars on Saturday night and Sunday afternoon.

For Immediate Release
Monday, December 22, 2014

Victoria, BC – The Victoria Royals return to action at Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre against the Prince George Cougars on Saturday night and Sunday afternoon.  Saturday’s game is Black Press Card Night, while Sunday afternoon is Kirby’s Source for Sports’ Skate with the players after the game.

MID-SEASON REPORT: After 37 games played so far this season the Royals entered the Christmas break in fifth place in the Western Conference with 37 points and a record of 17-17-2-1. Victoria has also scored 121 goals which is good for third most in the West and eighth in the WHL.

‘TIS THE SEASON: This weekend’s contests against the Cougars will see an influx of children and families at the games. The Royals, with the help of School Districts 61, 62, and 63 have donated over 25,000 free student coupons to all schools in the Greater Victoria area. The coupons are valid for any student aged 14 and under and can be used when redeemed with a paying adult at the Select Your Tickets box-office. If your child didn’t receive their complimentary coupon please give the Royals ticket office a call at 250-220-7889 to inquire about picking one up.

SATURDAY – BLACK PRESS CARD NIGHT

PRE-GAME:

6:00 p.m.
-          The first 1,500 fans will receive a set of collectible Royals’ 2014-15 player cards (limit of one set per person)

6:00 p.m.
-          Strathcona Hotel will have tables set-up in the concourse where fans can enter for a chance to win a PlayStation 4 console during pre-game and the intermissions

6:00-6:45 p.m.
-          Japan Camera will be on site at Gate 1 to take Christmas photos with Marty the Marmot. Photos are by food or cash donation to the Mustard Seed Food Bank.

INTERMISSION ACTIVITIES:

Second Intermission
-          SORA Spa Chuck-a-Puck
o   SORA Spa Package
o   Jiffy Lube Oil Change

SUNDAY – KIRBY’S SOURCE FOR SPORTS SKATE WITH THE PLAYERS

PRE-GAME:

12:00-12:45 p.m.
-          Japan Camera will be on site at Gate 1 to take Christmas photos with Marty the Marmot. Photos are by food or cash donation to the Mustard Seed Food Bank

INTERMISSION ACTIVITIES & PROMOS:

Second Intermission
-          SORA Spa Chuck-a-Puck
o   SORA Spa Package
o   Jiffy Lube Oil Change

Promo
-          Wheaton GMC 500 (Second Intermission)
o   Fans will compete for a prize from Dave Wheaton Pontiac GMC

POST-GAME:

Kirby’s Source for Sports’ Skate with the players:

-          Join the Royals post-game for Kirby’s Source for Sports Skate with the players.  Fans are encouraged to bring their own skates and helmets, but can rent by donation from the SOFMC Skate Shop during the game.  Proceeds go towards the BC Children’s Hospital.


Thursday 18 December 2014

Recap: VIC 6 - EVT 7 SOL

Kohl Bauml had a hat trick and the shoot out winner as the Everett Silvertips (20-9-3-1, 44pts) edged the visiting Victoria Royals 7-6 Wednesday night.

The Royals (17-17-2-1, 37pts) twice overcame deficits to take a two goal lead in the the third, before Bauml added a pair to force overtime.

“I’m proud of them, coming back in the game…it’s unfortunate that we had to give up a two goal lead but we showed a lot of resilience and we battled and competed…that’s what we wanted out of our guys - and we got that tonight.” Said Interim Head Coach Enio Sacilotto.

The shoot out went four rounds, with Jack Walker getting the lone goal for the Royals, while Carson Stadnyk and Bauml struck for the Silvertips.

Chaz Reddekopp had a four point night with a goal and 3 assists, while Tyler Soy (2g 1a) and Brandon Fushimi (1g 2a) had 3 points each.

“We didn’t give up, we didn’t let up we kept battling hard,” said Reddekopp on twice coming from behind to take leads in the game, “…it was too bad we couldn’t hold that lead but I think we battled hard tonight.”

Victoria was without 3 players who are scoring at a point per game or better in Joe Hicketts (WJ), Brandon Magee (Upper), and Greg Chase (1 game suspension).

Victoria picks up a single point, as they wrap up their three game road trip and now head into the Christmas Break, winless in 4 (0-3-0-1).

“It’s real frustrating that we didn’t get the win when we were up by two in the third,” said Fushimi, “…going into the break, we’re excited to get this point.”

Overall the Royals were outshot 33-20, while their power play went 1 for 4 as they killed off all 3 Silvertip man advantages.

Coleman Vollrath was between the pipes for the clubs first shoot out of the season, while Austin Lotz picked up the victory at the other end.

Taylor Crunk was hit in the head with a slap shot, knocking his helmet flying – yet remained in the game.

“I didn’t really see the puck coming…” said Crunk, “I felt it hit my jaw, and then I realized I lost my helmet and had to get off the ice.”

Austin Carroll scored his team leading 22nd and added an assist, while Regan Nagy scored the other Victoria goal.

Everett jumped to a 2-0 lead in the first with a pair of goals :45 seconds apart.  Nagy and Soy countered before the period was over to draw even at 2.

In the second, Carroll scored on a 5 on 3 to take Victoria’s first lead of the game.  The Silvertips then retook the lead with a pair of goals heading into the 3rd with a 4-3 lead.

The Royals responded with 3 straight in a span of 3:42 to start the final frame to take a 6-4 lead on goals by Soy, Reddekopp, and Fushimi.  Bauml scored twice to tie.

Nikita Scherbak had 3 assists, and Cole MacDonald had 2 goals and an assist for Everett.

Victoria opens the back half of the season with a 7 game homestand Dec. 27th against Prince George.

- Marlon Martens

Victoria Royals 6 at Everett Silvertips 7 (SO) - Status: Final SO
Wednesday, December 17, 2014 - Comcast Arena - Everett, WA

Victoria 2 1 3 0 - 6
Everett 2 2 2 0 - 7

1st Period-
1, Everett, Bauml 13 (Scherbak, Leedahl), 7:46.
2, Everett, MacDonald 8 (Scherbak, Nikolishin), 8:31.
3, Victoria, Nagy 4 (Walker), 16:18.
4, Victoria, Soy 9 (Carroll), 19:52.

Penalties-Hannoun Vic (hooking), 3:03.

2nd Period-
5, Victoria, Carroll 22 (Brown, Reddekopp), 1:51 (PP).
6, Everett, MacDonald 9 (Nikolishin, Scherbak), 12:29.
7, Everett, Bajkov 11 (Mykitiuk), 13:50.

Penalties-Davis Evt (interference), 1:01; Juulsen Evt (delay of game), 1:12; Millar Evt (holding), 9:52.

3rd Period-
8, Victoria, Soy 10 (Fushimi, Reddekopp), 3:11.
9, Victoria, Reddekopp 2 (Soy, Fushimi), 5:19.
10, Victoria, Fushimi 7 (Reddekopp, Ibragimov), 6:53.
11, Everett, Bauml 14 (Juulsen, MacDonald), 7:55.
12, Everett, Bauml 15 (Stadnyk, Leedahl), 15:54.

Penalties-Davis Evt (boarding), 1:05; Dmytriw Vic (tripping), 4:29; MacDonald Evt (embellishment), 4:29; Hannoun Vic (slashing), 9:59; Gagnon Vic (delay of game), 10:59.

OT Period-
No Scoring.

Penalties-No Penalties

Shootout –
Victoria 1 (Soy NG, Carroll NG, Walker G, Hannoun NG),
Everett 2 (Bajkov NG, Nikolishin NG, Stadnyk G, Bauml G).

Shots on Goal-
Victoria 8-6-5-1-0-20.
Everett 13-7-10-3-1-34.

Power Play Opportunities-
Victoria 1 / 4;
Everett 0 / 3.

Goalies-
Victoria, Vollrath 14-11-2-1 (33 shots-27 saves).
Everett, Lotz 15-6-1-1 (20 shots-14 saves).

A-3,188
Referees-Adam Griffiths (36), Trevor Shively (11).
Linesmen-Adam Brastad (132), Mark Heier (125).

Wednesday 17 December 2014

Preview: Victoria at Everett, Wed Dec.17th

The Victoria Royals (17-17-2-0) visit the 10th ranked team in the CHL Top 10, the Everett Silvertips (19-9-3-1) Wednesday night, in their final game before the Christmas Break.

Pregame show at 6:40 on The Zone @ 91.3 fm or online: cjzn.streamon.fm

It’s the second meeting of the season, with the Royals winning at home 3-1 on Nov. 21st.

Both clubs have just 4 wins in their past 10, and are coming off losses.

The Silvertips fell 2-1 on the road against the Giants Tuesday night, after a 4-2 win over the Americans Saturday.

Victoria fell 5-4 Tuesday at Seattle in a back and forth affair, with the Thunderbirds coming from behind to win with a pair of late goals.

The club was missing Brandon Magee due to injury and Joe Hicketts away with Team Canada at the World Junior Selection camp.  The Silvertips have no players away at international tournaments.

The Royals have dropped 3 straight, matching their longest skid of the season.

Victoria has now played half of their regular season games, and are back to .500 (17-17-2-0).  They sit 2nd in the BC Division, 2 points up on Prince George.

Everett is 10 games over .500 with a record of (19-9-3-1), and 5 games over .500 at home.  They are 1st in the US Division, just 1 point ahead of Portland.

The Silvertips are the least penalized team in the WHL, while allowing the 4th fewest goals against, and scoring the 8th most on average per game.

Everett is led by Nikita Scherback, the 26th overall selection of the Montreal Canadiens in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft.  He has 39 points in 26 games.

Victoria is led by Austin Carroll who also has 39 points, including 21 goals, tied for 5th most in the league.

The Royals are 0-2 on their current road trip, which began with a 4-0 loss at the Giants on Saturday.

After the break, the open a 7 game home stand with a pair against the Cougars on Dec. 27th and 28th.

- Marlon Martens

Victoria Royals vs Everett Silvertips: Head To Head Stats Summary
  
Description
Result
Head to Head Record 2014-15 Regular SeasonVictoria 1-0-0-0Everett 0-1-0-0
Head to Head Record 2013-14 Regular SeasonVictoria 2-2-0-0Everett 2-1-0-1
Last 5 Years record between teamsVictoria 8-8-1-0Everett 9-5-2-1
Victoria vs. Everett Last 5 Years record at VictoriaVictoria 5-4-0-0Everett 4-4-0-1
Victoria vs. Everett Last 5 Years record at EverettVictoria 3-4-1-0Everett 5-1-2-0
Previous Meetings This SeasonEverett 1 @ Victoria 3 (Nov 21 2014) Final

How the 2 teams match up
   
 
Everett
Victoria
Team Record19-9-3-1 -- 42 points17-17-2-0 -- 36 points
Division Ranking1st U.S.2nd B.C.
Conference Ranking2nd Western4th Western
League Ranking4th8th
Past 10 Games4-5-1-04-6-0-0
Streak0-1-0-00-3-0-0
Last Game2-1 L @ Vancouver (Dec 16 2014) Final5-4 L @ Seattle (Dec 16 2014) Final
Home Record10-5-3-010-5-2-0
Away Record9-4-0-17-12-0-0
GF105 115 
GA88 124 
PP (Overall)(28/137) 20.4(34/156) 21.8
PP (Home)(19/74) 25.7(18/63) 28.6
PP (Away)(9/63) 14.3(16/93) 17.2
PK (Overall)(23/93) 75.3(38/155) 75.5
PK (Home)(13/48) 72.9(13/62) 79.0
PK (Away)(10/45) 77.8(25/93) 73.1
Leading RookieSkrumeda (0-5-5)Nagy (3-5-8)
Most PIMLow - 31Crunk - 67
Team PIM/GM8.7/Game15.8/Game
Leading ScorersScherbak (15-24-39)Carroll (21-18-39)
 Stadnyk (12-18-30)Hicketts (8-30-38)
 Nikolishin (8-22-30)Brown (13-17-30)
 Bauml (12-14-26)Magee (10-19-29)
 Juulsen (3-20-23)Blomqvist (14-13-27)
Last 5 Games2-1 L @ Vancouver (Dec 16 2014) Final5-4 L @ Seattle (Dec 16 2014) Final
 4-2 W vs Tri-City (Dec 13 2014) Final4-0 L @ Vancouver (Dec 13 2014) Final
 3-1 L vs Prince George (Dec 12 2014) Final6-3 L vs Vancouver (Dec 12 2014) Final
 4-3 W @ Tri-City (Dec 9 2014) Final SO1-0 W vs Prince Albert (Dec 9 2014) Final
 5-3 L @ Portland (Dec 6 2014) Final6-3 W vs Saskatoon (Dec 5 2014) Final
Leading After 1st12-1-0-08-2-0-0
Leading After 2nd16-2-1-010-1-0-0
Tied After 1st4-2-1-05-5-0-0
Tied After 2nd2-0-2-03-1-1-0
Trailing After 1st3-6-2-14-10-2-0
Trailing After 2nd1-7-0-14-15-1-0
Out Shooting Opponents9-3-0-010-5-1-0
Out Shot by Opponents10-6-3-16-11-1-0
1-Goal Games8-3-3-17-4-2-0
2-Goal Games4-4-0-04-6-0-0
3-Goal Games3-1-0-02-3-0-0

Recap: VIC 4 - SEA 5

The Seattle Thunderbirds scored a pair of late goals to come from behind and beat the visiting Victoria Royals 5-4 Tuesday night.

The Royals overcame a 3 goal deficit with 4 straight, but a pair by the Thunderbirds late in the third snapped their two game slide.

We haven’t felt that we’ve had the competitive juices for the last three games, and tonight we had that.” said Interim Head Coach Enio Sacilotto,

“…maybe we didn’t get the bounce that we needed at the end of the game, but the way we’ve been going it’s a little bit of a start for us.”

Victoria suffered their third consecutie set back, and now play their final game before the Christmas break Wednesday night in Everett.

Seattle was 2 for 5 on the power play, while shutting down all 3 of Victoria’s chances with the man advantage.  The Royals were outshot 45-26, as Coleman Vollrath was valiant with 40 saves, while Taran Kozun kicked out 22 shots.

“There were a lot of ups and downs, I thought our compete level and emotion was a lot better than the previous games we’ve played…” said Travis Brown who had a 3 point night, with a goal and two assists.

Greg Chase also had a 3 point night with 3 assists, Tyler Soy had a goal and an assist, while Austin Carroll and Logan Fisher got the other goals for the visitors.

“I think we showed a lot of character and resiliency…any team can fold when they’re down 3-0 half way through a game, but I thought our guys did a great job not giving up and fighting it until the end.” Said Chase.

After a scoreless first, the Thunderbirds scored three goals in a span of 3:56 seconds, with two being on the power play.

Travis Brown would respond less than a minute later, and Austin Carroll notched his team leading 21st late in the middle frame to draw the Royals within one, 3-2.

Tyler Soy would tie the game at 3 midway through the third period, and Logan Fisher would strike :08 seconds later to put the Royals ahead.

Those two goals set the Royals’ franchise record for fastest goals in succession, held previously at :11 seconds by Brandon Manning and Kevin Sundher of the Chilliwack Bruins on Nov.6th, 2010 in Kelowna.

Seattle regained the lead when Donovan Neuls and Ryan Gropp (1g 1a) scored 1:12 apart with under four minutes remaining.

Taylor Crunk decisively won a fight against 6’6 Scott Allan in the middle frame, providing a big lift for his club.

Victoria was without Brandon Magee (upper), and Joe Hicketts (WJ).

Justin Hickman (1g 2a), Lane Pederson and Keegan Kolesar (1g 1a) tallied the other markers for the Thunderbirds.  Ethan Bear chipped in with a pair of assists.

Victoria will now head to Everett to take on the Silvertips tomorrow at 7:05 p.m. before they take a nine-day Christmas break. The Royals then return to Victoria to play a pair of games against the Prince George Cougars on Saturday, December 27th and Sunday, December 28th.  Game time is 7:05 p.m. on Saturday, and 1:05 p.m. on Sunday.

- Marlon Martens

Victoria Royals 4 at Seattle Thunderbirds 5 - Status: Final
Tuesday, December 16, 2014 - ShoWare Center - Kent, WA

Victoria 0 2 2 - 4
Seattle 0 3 2 - 5

1st Period-
No Scoring.

Penalties-Hauf Sea (high sticking), 6:06; Eansor Sea (tripping), 18:17.

2nd Period-
1, Seattle, Hickman 8 (Gropp, Bear), 1:25 (PP).
2, Seattle, Pederson 4 (Spencer, Holowko), 2:15.
3, Seattle, Kolesar 11 (Bear, Hickman), 5:21 (PP).
4, Victoria, Brown 13 (Walker, Chase), 6:14.
5, Victoria, Carroll 21 (Chase, Soy), 18:47.

Penalties-Gagnon Vic (delay of game), 0:38; Crunk Vic (major-fighting, 10-minute misconduct), 4:17; Allan Sea (major-fighting), 4:17; Gagnon Vic (roughing), 5:15; Carroll Vic (interference), 6:31; Ibragimov Vic (roughing), 9:19; Gropp Sea (cross checking), 9:19; Khaira Sea (interference), 12:14; Chase Vic (roughing), 16:35.

3rd Period-
6, Victoria, Soy 8 (Chase, Brown), 11:49.
7, Victoria, Fisher 4 (Brown, Gagnon), 11:57.
8, Seattle, Neuls 3 (Eansor), 16:15.
9, Seattle, Gropp 14 (Hickman, Kolesar), 17:27.

Penalties-Chase Vic (major-spearing, game misconduct), 19:42.

Shots on Goal-
Victoria 5-10-11-26.
Seattle 10-18-17-45.

Power Play Opportunities-
Victoria 0 / 3;
Seattle 2 / 5.

Goalies-
Victoria, Vollrath 14-11-2-0 (45 shots-40 saves).
Seattle, Kozun 13-10-2-2 (26 shots-22 saves).

A-5,099
Referees-Mark Pearce (5), Sean Raphael (28).
Linesmen-Tim Digby (75), Aaron Mills (113).

Monday 15 December 2014

Preview: Victoria at Seattle, Tues. Dec.16th

The Victoria Royals (17-16-2-0, 36pts) visit the Seattle Thunderbirds (13-15-2-2 , 30pts) Tuesday for their first of four meetings this season.

Pregame show on The Zone @ 91.3fm at 6:40.

The teams split the season series last year (2-2).

The Royals are 2nd, in the BC Division, while the Thunderbirds are 5th in the US, with 6 points separating.

The two clubs are each looking to snap two game losing skids, while both missing key defenseman who made the first round of cuts at Team Canada’s World Junior Selection camp.  Joe Hicketts for Victoria, and Shea Theodore, the Anaheim Ducks 26th overall selection in 2013, for Seattle.

[Theodore, suffered an elbow injury at the training camp of the Anaheim Ducks in September. He was assigned to the AHL Norfolk Admirals on October 29 by the Ducks, playing in 5 games and had 3 goals and 2 assists.]

Both of the Thunderbirds import players are off to represent their countries on the international stage, Florian Baltram from Austria, and Alexander True from Denmark.

Seattle is also without 2012, 1st overall bantam selection Matthew Barzal, and will be for another month with a lower body injury.

Victoria is coming off a 4-0 loss in Vancouver Saturday night, dropping the home and home set with the Giants.  They were outshot 51-27 at the Coliseum, while Vancouver got 3 of their goals with the man advantage, and 3 the night before.  The Giants now have the longest win streak in the league at 6 games and have clawed back into a tie with Seattle for 9th in the West.

Interim Head Coach Enio Sacilotto is behind the bench while Head Coach Dave Lowry is serving as an assistant coach for Team Canada at the World Juniors.

[Sacilotto brings over 30 years of world wide coaching experience to the organization, including being named the BCHL Coach of the Year with the Penticton Vees in 94-95. He also led Lugano to the Gold Medal in the Swiss National League A for the 1998-99 season.]

Victoria is in the middle of a 3 game road trip which concludes in Everett Wednesday, their final game before the Christmas Break.

Seattle fell 2-1 at home to Portland Saturday, after getting blanked 4-0 in Tri City Friday.

The T-birds are 3 games under .500 at home, (5-8-1-2), while the Royals are (7-11) on the road.

While Seattle has only scored the 2nd fewest goals on average per game in the league, they are quite stingy, allowing the 4th fewest goals against.

Netminder Taran Kozun leads the WHL in goals against (2.18), with the 4th best save perctage (0.920). Kozun has allowed two goals or less in 9 of the last 10 games.

The T-Birds have 10 players currently on the roster who were born in 1997.

Seattle is led in scoring by Ryan Gropp who has 27 points in 32 games, including a team best 13 goals by the 18 year old.  He’s draft eligible and is ‘B’ rated for the upcoming draft by NHL’s Central Scouting.

Victoria is led by Austin Carroll and Joe Hicketts, both with 38 points.  Carroll has a team leading 20 goals, while Hicketts has 30 helpers.

Travis Brown leads all defenseman in goals with 12, including 8 on the power play.

Victoria will return home after the break to face the Prince George Cougars on Saturday, December 27th for Black Press Card Night and Sunday, December 28th for a skate with the players.

- Marlon Martens

Victoria Royals (NHL Camp Attendees - 6)
Axel Blomqvist, Winnipeg Jets, F/A, YES
Travis Brown, Ottawa Senators, F/A (Chicago 2012), No
Austin Carroll, Calgary Flames, 2014, No
Joe Hicketts, Detroit Red Wings, F/A, YES
Greg Chase, Edmonton Oilers, 2013, YES
Brandon Magee, Calgary Flames, F/A, No

Seattle Thunderbirds NHL Camp Attendees (3)
Justin Hickman, Winnipeg Jets, F/A, No
Shea Theodore, Anaheim Ducks, 2013, YES
Evan Wardley, Montreal Canadiens, F/A, No

NHL Central Scouting November 2014 Rankings

C REDDEKOPP, CHAZ VICTORIA WHL 6'3.25" 219 D
C SMITH, EVAN VICTORIA WHL 6'6.25" 174 G
C SOY, TYLER VICTORIA WHL 5'11.5" 172 C

A BARZAL, MATHEW SEATTLE WHL 5'11.25" 175 C
B GROPP, RYAN SEATTLE WHL 6'2.0" 184 LW
B KOLESAR, KEEGAN SEATTLE WHL 6'1.25" 217 RW
C BEAR, ETHAN SEATTLE WHL 5'11.0" 200 D

Victoria Royals vs Seattle Thunderbirds: Head To Head Stats Summary
  
Description
Result
Head to Head Record 2014-15 Regular SeasonVictoria 0-0-0-0Seattle 0-0-0-0
Head to Head Record 2013-14 Regular SeasonVictoria 2-2-0-0Seattle 2-1-1-0
Last 5 Years record between teamsVictoria 8-4-1-3Seattle 8-6-2-0
Victoria vs. Seattle Last 5 Years record at VictoriaVictoria 5-2-0-1Seattle 3-3-2-0
Victoria vs. Seattle Last 5 Years record at SeattleVictoria 3-2-1-2Seattle 5-3-0-0
  


How the 2 teams match up
   
 
Seattle
Victoria
Team Record13-15-2-2 -- 30 points17-16-2-0 -- 36 points
Division Ranking5th U.S.2nd B.C.
Conference Ranking9th Western4th Western
League Ranking19th8th
Past 10 Games4-5-0-15-5-0-0
Streak0-2-0-00-2-0-0
Last Game2-1 L vs Portland (Dec 13 2014) Final4-0 L @ Vancouver (Dec 13 2014) Final
Home Record5-8-1-210-5-2-0
Away Record8-7-1-07-11-0-0
GF81 111 
GA88 119 
PP (Overall)(22/120) 18.3(34/153) 22.2
PP (Home)(13/58) 22.4(18/63) 28.6
PP (Away)(9/62) 14.5(16/90) 17.8
PK (Overall)(28/131) 78.6(36/150) 76.0
PK (Home)(17/73) 76.7(13/62) 79.0
PK (Away)(11/58) 81.0(23/88) 73.9
Leading RookieTrue (5-5-10)Nagy (3-5-8)
Most PIMHauf - 60Crunk - 62
Team PIM/GM14.3/Game15.7/Game
Leading ScorersGropp (13-14-27)Carroll (20-18-38)
 Hickman (7-14-21)Hicketts (8-30-38)
 Kolesar (10-9-19)Magee (10-19-29)
 Barzal (7-11-18)Blomqvist (14-13-27)
 Bear (7-9-16)Brown (12-15-27)
Last 5 Games2-1 L vs Portland (Dec 13 2014) Final4-0 L @ Vancouver (Dec 13 2014) Final
 4-0 L @ Tri-City (Dec 12 2014) Final6-3 L vs Vancouver (Dec 12 2014) Final
 4-1 W @ Spokane (Dec 7 2014) Final1-0 W vs Prince Albert (Dec 9 2014) Final
 5-3 L vs Medicine Hat (Dec 6 2014) Final6-3 W vs Saskatoon (Dec 5 2014) Final
 3-1 W vs Tri-City (Dec 5 2014) Final6-4 L vs Portland (Dec 2 2014) Final
Leading After 1st7-2-1-18-2-0-0
Leading After 2nd9-2-1-010-1-0-0
Tied After 1st3-4-1-05-4-0-0
Tied After 2nd2-2-1-23-1-1-0
Trailing After 1st3-9-0-14-10-2-0
Trailing After 2nd2-11-0-04-14-1-0
Out Shooting Opponents9-8-0-110-5-1-0
Out Shot by Opponents3-7-1-16-10-1-0
1-Goal Games5-6-2-27-3-2-0
2-Goal Games3-5-0-04-6-0-0
3-Goal Games4-2-0-02-3-0-0

Saturday 13 December 2014

Recap: VIC 0 - VAN 4

Mason Geertsen had two goals and an assist, while Cody Porter 27 made saves as the Vancouver Giants (15-18, 30pts) shut out the visiting Victoria Royals 4-0 Saturday night.

Vancouver wins their 6th in a row, and sweep the home and home set against Victoria (17-16-2-0, 36pts) after 6-3 victory on the Island one night earlier.

The Giants scored three power play goals as they built up period leads of 2-0 and 4-0, while outshooting the Royals 51-27.

The special teams again”, said Enio Sacilotto on the difference in the loss, “we gave up three power play goals early in the game, that put us behind the eight ball and then we’re chasing the game…” 

Vancouver scored three goals with the man advantage in consecutive nights, going 6 for 9, while blanking Victoria's man advantages both games for a combined 0 for 8.

The Royals started Jayden Sittler in net allowing 4 goals of 27 shots before being replaced by Coleman Vollrath in the 2nd period, who stopped all 24 shots he faced.

The Giants also got goals from Alec Baer and Josh Thrower, while Brennan Mennell and Joel Hamilton had a pair of assists.

The Royals were without Brandon Magee and Joe Hicketts who’s off at Team Canada’s World Junior selection camp.

“There’s no excuse, we have to come together as a team, bear down and win these next games without them.” said Abbotsford native, Mitch Skapski who showed a lot of spark in front of friends and family.

"I thought Skapski was our best forward tonight, he had a strong game and it was good to see for him." said Sacilotto.

According to @WHLFacts, the Giants have ended the Royals streak of 95 straight games with at least one goal (including playoffs).

Vancouver takes a 4-3 season series lead, and will meet next for 3 games in 3 nights in March.

Victoria has two road games left before the Christmas break, in Seattle Tuesday and Everett on Wednesday.

- Marlon Martens

Victoria Royals 0 at Vancouver Giants 4 - Status: Final
Saturday, December 13, 2014 - Pacific Coliseum - Vancouver, BC

Victoria 0 0 0 - 0
Vancouver 2 2 0 - 4

1st Period-
1, Vancouver, Geertsen 3 (Menell, Hamilton), 4:00 (PP). 
2, Vancouver, Thrower 2 (Bellerive, Geertsen), 12:51 (PP). 

Penalties-Blomqvist Vic (tripping), 2:40; Geertsen Van (interference), 10:21; Soy Vic (high sticking), 10:57; Dosanjh Van (interference), 17:39.

2nd Period-
3, Vancouver, Baer 8 (Odgers, Hamilton), 2:09. 
4, Vancouver, Geertsen 4 (Menell, Foster), 7:29 (PP). 

Penalties-Skapski Vic (charging), 6:41; Osipov Van (boarding), 13:49; Soy Vic (roughing), 15:13; Atwal Van (roughing), 15:13; Nagy Vic (hooking), 17:33.

3rd Period- 
No Scoring.

Penalties-Reddekopp Vic (tripping), 2:54; Sward Van (cross checking), 8:43; Benson Van (hooking), 16:03.

Shots on Goal-
Victoria 8-11-8-27. 
Vancouver 17-16-18-51.

Power Play Opportunities-
Victoria 0 / 5; 
Vancouver 3 / 5.

Goalies-
Victoria, Sittler 2-5-0-0 (27 shots-23 saves); Vollrath 14-10-2-0 (24 shots-24 saves). Vancouver, Porter 4-6-0-0 (27 shots-27 saves).

A-4,844
Referees-Dexter Rasmussen (25), Reagan Vetter (39).
Linesmen-Michael Bean (148), Cody Wanner (56).

Preview: Victoria at Vancouver, Sat. Dec.13th

The Victoria Royals (17-15-2-0, 36pts) look for a split in the home and home against the Vancouver Giants (14-18, 28pts) tonight from the Pacific Coliseum.

Pregame show Saturday from Vancouver at 6:40 on The Zone @ 91.3fm

Both clubs are (5-5) in their Past 10 games.

Friday night, Axel Blomqvist scored the Teddy Bear toss goal, but the Giants spoiled the party with a 6-3 win at the Save On Foods Memorial Centre.

The Giants used 3 power play goals plus one shorthanded, to earn their 5th straight win and even the season series at 3 a piece.  They are now 4-0 under head coach Claude Noel.

Vancouver was 3 for 4 on the power play, while Victoria went 0 for 3.  Peyton Lee earned the victory with 26 saves, while Coleman Vollrath was busy making 38 saves in the loss.

Travis Brown had two assists, and Magee had a goal and an assist for the Royals, while Geertson and Thomas Foster had a goal and assist each for the Giants.

Victoria was without defenseman Joe Hicketts, away at Team Canada’s World Junior Selection camp, and Dave Lowry serving as an assistant coach.  Enio Sacilotto is serving as head coach for the club in his absence.

Vancouver did not have their 2nd leading scorer Jackson Houck in the line up, out day to day with a lower body injury.

The Royals had their two game win streak snapped, as they wrapped up their four game homestand with a 2-2 record.

Victoria now kicks off three road games before the Christmas break.  They’ll be in Seattle Tuesday, and Everett Wednesday.

The Royals return to the Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre on Saturday, December 27th and Sunday, December 28th for a two game series against the Prince George Cougars. Puck drop for both games is scheduled at 7:05 p.m.

Give the gift of hockey this holiday season. The Royals “Holiday Combo” includes four any-time vouchers and a Royals’ fleece scarf. The best part? It’s already pre-wrapped in a colourful ticket booklet. Visit www.victoriaroyals.com or the box-office for full details.

-Marlon Martens

Victoria Royals vs Vancouver Giants: Head To Head Stats Summary
  
Description
Result
Head to Head Record 2014-15 Regular SeasonVictoria 3-3-0-0Vancouver 3-3-0-0
Head to Head Record 2013-14 Regular SeasonVictoria 5-4-0-1Vancouver 5-4-1-0
Last 5 Years record between teamsVictoria 23-21-1-1Vancouver 23-22-1-0
Victoria vs. Vancouver Last 5 Years record at VictoriaVictoria 14-8-0-1Vancouver 9-13-1-0
Victoria vs. Vancouver Last 5 Years record at VancouverVictoria 9-13-1-0Vancouver 14-9-0-0
Previous Meetings This SeasonVancouver 6 @ Victoria 3 (Dec 12 2014) Final
Victoria 7 @ Vancouver 5 (Nov 15 2014) Final
Vancouver 2 @ Victoria 3 (Oct 25 2014) Final
Vancouver 1 @ Victoria 2 (Oct 24 2014) Final
Victoria 3 @ Vancouver 5 (Sep 28 2014) Final
Victoria 1 @ Vancouver 3 (Sep 20 2014) Final

How the 2 teams match up
   
 
Vancouver
Victoria
Team Record14-18-0-0 -- 28 points17-15-2-0 -- 36 points
Division Ranking5th B.C.2nd B.C.
Conference Ranking10th Western4th Western
League Ranking20th8th
Past 10 Games5-5-0-05-5-0-0
Streak5-0-0-00-1-0-0
Last Game6-3 W @ Victoria (Dec 12 2014) Final6-3 L vs Vancouver (Dec 12 2014) Final
Home Record10-7-0-010-5-2-0
Away Record4-11-0-07-10-0-0
GF99 111 
GA109 115 
PP (Overall)(31/130) 23.8(34/148) 23.0
PP (Home)(18/59) 30.5(18/63) 28.6
PP (Away)(13/71) 18.3(16/85) 18.8
PK (Overall)(31/139) 77.7(33/145) 77.2
PK (Home)(12/70) 82.9(13/62) 79.0
PK (Away)(19/69) 72.5(20/83) 75.9
Leading RookieBenson (6-13-19)Nagy (3-5-8)
Most PIMGeertsen - 60Crunk - 62
Team PIM/GM13.9/Game15.8/Game
Leading ScorersPopoff (14-15-29)Carroll (20-18-38)
 Houck (12-15-27)Hicketts (8-30-38)
 Foster (7-19-26)Magee (10-19-29)
 Hamilton (10-14-24)Blomqvist (14-13-27)
 Bellerive (12-10-22)Brown (12-15-27)
Last 5 Games6-3 W @ Victoria (Dec 12 2014) Final6-3 L vs Vancouver (Dec 12 2014) Final
 3-0 W vs Prince Albert (Dec 10 2014) Final1-0 W vs Prince Albert (Dec 9 2014) Final
 3-2 W vs Saskatoon (Dec 6 2014) Final SO6-3 W vs Saskatoon (Dec 5 2014) Final
 3-2 W vs Portland (Dec 5 2014) Final6-4 L vs Portland (Dec 2 2014) Final
 6-3 W @ Calgary (Nov 29 2014) Final5-3 W @ Kamloops (Nov 29 2014) Final
Leading After 1st5-2-0-08-2-0-0
Leading After 2nd9-1-0-010-1-0-0
Tied After 1st7-7-0-05-4-0-0
Tied After 2nd2-1-0-03-1-1-0
Trailing After 1st2-9-0-04-9-2-0
Trailing After 2nd3-16-0-04-13-1-0
Out Shooting Opponents11-7-0-010-5-1-0
Out Shot by Opponents3-8-0-06-9-1-0
1-Goal Games3-6-0-07-3-2-0
2-Goal Games4-3-0-04-6-0-0
3-Goal Games4-2-0-02-3-0-0

Friday 12 December 2014

Recap: VAN 6 - VIC 3 Friday Dec.12

Axel Blomqvist scored the Teddy Bear toss goal, but the visiting Vancouver Giants spoiled the party with a 6-3 win over the Victoria Royals Friday night.

The Giants used 3 power play goals plus one shorthanded, to earn their 5th straight win and even the season series at 3 a piece.  They are now 4-0 under head coach Claude Noel.

Vancouver was 3 for 4 on the power play, while Victoria went 0 for 3.

The Royals had their two game win streak snapped, as they wrapped up their four game homestand with a 2-2 record.

Peyton Lee earned the victory with 26 saves, while Coleman Vollrath was busy making 38 saves in the loss.

The two clubs meet again Saturday, this time in Vancouver as Victoria kicks off three road games before the Christmas break.

After Mason Geertson opened the scoring with :30 seconds left in the first, Blomqvist notched his 14th early in the second to bring the bears down from the stands.

The Giants then erupted with 3 straight goals in a span of 7:12 to build a 4-1 lead.  Jack Palmer cut their lead in half before heading into the third.

In the final frame Dakota Odgers regained the three goal lead before Brandon Magee buried his 10th, to bring the home team to within striking distance 5-3.

Tyler Benson struck while shorthanded to put the game out of reach.

Travis Brown had two assists, and Magee had a goal and an assist for the Royals, while Geertson and Thomas Foster had a goal and assist each for the Giants.

Victoria was without defenseman Joe Hicketts, away at Team Canada’s World Junior Selection camp, and also Dave Lowry, as an assistant coach.  Enio Sacilotto is serving as head coach for the club in his absence.

Vancouver did not have their 2nd leading scorer Jackson Houck in the line up, out day to day with a lower body injury.

Pregame show Saturday from Vancouver at 6:40 on The Zone @ 91.3fm

-Marlon Martens

Vancouver Giants 6 at Victoria Royals 3 - Status: Final
Friday, December 12, 2014 - Save-On-Foods Memorial Arena - Victoria, BC

Vancouver 1 3 2 - 6
Victoria 0 2 1 - 3

1st Period-
1, Vancouver, Geertsen 2   19:29 (PP).

Penalties-Foster Van (slashing), 6:12; Lee Van (slashing), 12:33; Hannoun Vic (high sticking), 14:01; Magee Vic (slashing), 18:39.

2nd Period-
2, Victoria, Blomqvist 14 (Brown, Gagnon), 2:33.
3, Vancouver, Foster 7 (Menell, Geertsen), 6:10 (PP).
4, Vancouver, Stukel 2 (Sward, Foster), 9:21.
5, Vancouver, Roach 2 (Bobylev, Brumm), 13:22 (PP).
6, Victoria, Palmer 3 (Brown, Magee), 17:21.

Penalties-Brown Vic (delay of game), 5:42; Fisher Vic (cross checking), 11:41.

3rd Period-
7, Vancouver, Odgers 3 (Baer), 5:21.
8, Victoria, Magee 10 (Soy, Walker), 6:56. 9,
Vancouver, Benson 6   11:35 (SH).

Penalties-Foster Van (high sticking), 10:14.

Shots on Goal-
Vancouver 13-18-13-44.
Victoria 7-7-15-29.

Power Play Opportunities-
Vancouver 3 / 4;
Victoria 0 / 3.

Goalies-
Vancouver, Lee 11-11-0-0 (29 shots-26 saves).
Victoria, Vollrath 14-10-2-0 (44 shots-38 saves).

A-4,605
Referees-Fraser Lawrence (10), Kyle Kowalski (15).
Linesmen-Riley Friesen (76), Jeff MacAdams.