The Nanaimo Clippers got back to their winning ways in time for the holidays.
The city’s B.C. Hockey League team won both its weekend games after dropping the two before that.
The Clips hammered the Prince George Spruce Kings 9-1 on Friday night at Frank Crane Arena, then closed out their pre-Christmas schedule with a 3-2 road victory against the Victoria Grizzlies on Saturday.
In Friday’s blowout it was rookie forward Matt Creamer who was the first star, as he scored three times in the third period to more than double his goal total for the season.
Matt Hoover had two goals and two assists and Nanaimo’s other scorers were Nolan Aibel, Spencer Hewson, Sheldon Rempal and Devin Brosseau. Evan Johnson made 24 saves for the win.
The next night was a closer affair, and the Clippers needed a game-winning goal from Corey Renwick midway through the third period to snap a 2-2 tie.
Brosseau and Zach Court were Nanaimo’s other scorers and Johnson had 28 saves for the win.
GAME ON … The Nanaimo Clippers return to the ice Dec. 30 when they visit the Cowichan Valley Capitals at the Island Savings Centre in Duncan. Next home game for the Clippers will be Jan. 6, when the Alberni Valley Bulldogs visit Frank Crane Arena for a 7 p.m. faceoff.
sports@nanaimobulletin.com