In an impressive display of skill and determination, the Victoria Grizzlies emerged victorious in a 3-0 win against the Trail Smoke Eaters. This thrilling game took place at Cominco Arena in the southeastern part of the province. The standout performance of rookie goaltender Owen Bresson, who replaced the injured Oliver Auyeung-Ashton, played a significant role in securing the Grizzlies’ victory. Bresson, only 17 years old, made an astounding 34 saves, earning his third shutout of the season and further solidifying his impressive 2.09 goals-against average, which ranked third-best in the BCHL prior to Friday’s match.
The game’s momentum shifted in favor of the Grizzlies when newcomer Ranvir Gill-Shane, a 20-year-old defenseman who recently joined the team from the Merritt Centennials, scored his first B.C. Hockey League goal. Gill-Shane’s shot from the point found its way past Smoke Eaters goaltender Teagan Kendrick, igniting the Grizzlies’ offense midway through the first period.
In the final minute of the second period, Elliot Dutil capitalized on a rebound, extending Victoria’s lead and giving the team some breathing room. Adding to the excitement, Grizzlies forward Jacksenn Hungle, who had been sidelined due to injury since October 27, made a triumphant return to the lineup by scoring 2 minutes and 30 seconds into the third period.
With this victory, the Grizzlies (20-12-0-1) remain just one point behind the Nanaimo Clippers in the race for second place in the Coastal Conference. Meanwhile, the Clippers managed to secure a narrow 4-3 win against the Powell River Kings on Friday.
Next, the Grizzlies will head back west to face the Centennials in Merritt. However, with Auyeung-Ashton still out due to injury, the team recently signed 19-year-old netminder Jack Fialkoff as a backup for Bresson. Fialkoff brings experience from his time with the Philadelphia Rebels of the North American Hockey League over the past two seasons.
Following their away game, the Grizzlies will briefly return home to The Q Centre for a match against the Powell River Kings next Friday. They will then embark on a journey to the Mainland, where they will face off against the Chilliwack Chiefs on Saturday and the Langley Rivermen on Sunday.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Victoria Grizzlies and their quest for success in the BCHL.
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