The Revelstoke Grizzlies defeated the Chase Heat 4-2 on Friday, their first win over their division rivals in more than a season.
“We struggled with them last year so it’s nice to get the first win against them in our first game,” said captain Michael Lenoury. “They beat on us so bad last year, it’s nice to take it out on them this time. Also, they’re in our division, so it’s key to win those games.”
Revelstoke lost all six of its games to Chase last year, giving the Grizzlies extra motivation going into Friday’s game at the Forum. They also wanted to pick up their second win in a row and bring their record back to .500 after losing their first two games of the season. To add to the challenge, the Heat started the season with three wins in four games.
The first period was scoreless, and it took until the ninth minute of the second for Chase to open the scoring when Michael Fidanza netted a power play goal.
Their lead didn’t last long, with 15-year-old Dylan McNeil firing home a wrist shot from the high slot for his first ever KIJHL goal only 46 seconds later.
Ullar Wiatzka gave Revelstoke the lead with just over four minutes left in the period when he fired home a slap shot from the top of the right circle while the Grizzlies were on the power play.
McNeil added his second of the night when he scored off a pass in front after a strong forecheck by Fraser McCann and Austin Thorne forced a turnover behind the Chase net.
Photo: Revelstoke Grizzlies goaltender Giovanni Sambrielaz makes a save late in the third period of Friday’s win over the Chase Heat.
The Grizzlies held off the Heat for most of the third period, however Chase got within one with a power play goal with only two minutes to play. They continued to push with the net empty but some strong defense and key saves by goaltender Giovanni Sambrielaz allowed Revelstoke to hold on for the win.
Jordan Rea scored an empty net goal with two seconds left to make the final score 4-2 Revelstoke. Revelstoke outshot Chase 41-28 in the game.
Afterwards, the players were clearly excited with their win, and blasted music in the dressing room after being rewarded for their effort with a late curfew.
“It’s good to get that first one under your belt and keep going,” said McNeil. “I’m just trying to play hard and play physical. Usually when I get angry, I play pretty good.”
Coach Ryan Parent called the win a “confidence builder.”
“More than anything it’s nice to see your team buy into the way you want to play,” he said. “There were times last year I didn’t feel that and I think we have that group this year, and I trust them.”
The team made a few moves since the home opener two weeks ago. They added Sambrielaz to the lineup and dealt goaltender Trevor Dilauro to a team in Colorado.
They also named Lenoury (left), an 18-year-old and one of the team’s few returning players, captain.
“It’s something I haven’t experienced yet. I’ve never worn with the C before. It’s a new challenge we’ll play it as it goes,” he said. “I try not to act too different. Just lead with my play on the ice and let the guys watch and hopefully they can follow.”
Parent spoke highly of McNeil, who doesn’t turn 16 until October 13 and is one of the youngest players in the league.
“I think he’s really going to be a player in time and this is a good confidence builder for him,” he said.
McNeil is from 100 Mile House and chose to come to Revelstoke after being spurned by his home town team.
“100 Mile didn’t give me an opportunity and the coaching here is unreal,” he said.
Revelstoke has three games this week. On Wednesday, Sept. 28, they hit the road for a game in Sicamous against the Eagles.
This weekend they play the Princeton Posse twice. On Friday, the two teams face off at the Forum, and on Saturday, the team’s re-match in Nakusp.
Parent said he would working on “small details” with the team this week.
“We’re becoming more confident with the puck, which is something we needed to do,” he said. “We’re learning how to play in our rink. It’s a smaller surface, so we’re starting to be more abrasive.”
