Tristan Fraser of the Nanaimo Clippers collides with Michael Hoekstra of the Victoria Grizzlies along the boards during Saturday’s game at the Alberni Valley Multiplex. Fraser scored the game-winning goal in a 4-3 win. (Elena Rardon/Black Press)

Nanaimo Clippers win in their return to the ice

Clippers edge Victoria Grizzlies 4-3 Saturday in BCHL action in Port Alberni

The Nanaimo Clippers’ long-awaited season opener ended with a winning result.

The Clippers edged the Victoria Grizzlies 4-3 on Saturday afternoon in Port Alberni as the BCHL’s 2021 regular season got underway this weekend.

Nanaimo was led by goaltender Jordan Naylor, who put forth a 42-save effort and stopped all 17 shots he faced in the third period to allow his team to come back and win. The Clippers had trailed 3-2 after two periods, but Thomas Maia and Tristan Fraser scored back-to-back goals in a 12-second span early in the third.

Keighan Gerrie and Luke Lavery were Nanaimo’s other scorers and Michael Palandra had two assists.

Shots were 45-29 for Victoria.

GAME ON … The Clippers play the Cowichan Valley Capitals on Sunday, April 4, at 5 p.m. at the Alberni Valley Multiplex.

READ ALSO: Nanaimo Clippers about to start ‘uncharted’ BCHL season


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Nanaimo News Bulletin