The Nanaimo Buccaneers were able to end 2015 the way they wanted to, thanks to an overtime win.
The Bucs beat the Peninsula Panthers 3-2 on Sunday night at the Nanaimo Ice Centre as Billy Walters scored the winning goal a minute into the OT frame. It put an end to a contest in which the Bucs outshot the visitors 37-12.
"Tonight was our most complete night that we've played this entire season, which is nice to see before the Christmas break,” said Dan Lemmon, Bucs coach. “To allow a team 12 shots all game, we were doing a lot of things right. We were playing physical but also disciplined."
Will Koop and Owen Dalman scored Nanaimo’s first two goals and then, on the winner, Nick Gomerich elected to pass on a two-on-none breakaway and Walters finished off the play.
“[Going] into Christmas, it’s good to head in really positive,” Walters said.
Alex Orth earned the win in goal.
GAME ON … The Bucs resume the season Jan. 3 when they host the Victoria Cougars at 6:15 p.m. at the NIC.
sports@nanaimobulletin.com