The Nanaimo Buccaneers were able to win once in their first week of action as junior B hockey season got underway.
The Bucs lost 5-2 to the Oceanside Generals on Thursday night at the Nanaimo Ice Centre, but responded two nights later with a 4-3 victory against the Comox Valley Glacier Kings up Island.
In the season opener at the NIC, the Oceanside Generals spoiled the Buccaneers’ home opener in the first game of the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League season.It was the first time the Bucs have lost a home opener.
Oceanside got two goals from former Nanaimo player Dawson Heathcote, and the Gens’ other scorers were Liam Moody, Brad Cimaglia and Brady Kay. James Brendeland made 38 saves for the win.
For Nanaimo, Dylan Tonks and Tate Roulette scored and Spencer Deakin made 25 saves as shots were 40-30 in favour of the home team.
On Saturday, Hunter MacDonald, Brendan Rogers, Ben Coghlan and Max Lozeman scored for the Buccaneers and Austin Dendl was the winning goalie with 29 saves as shots ended up 39-32 in favour of the visiting team.
GAME ON … The Bucs play at home this Thursday, Sept. 12, when the Kerry Park Islanders visit the NIC for a 7:15 p.m. start. For ticket info, visit www.nanaimobuccaneers.ca.