Outmanned, not outgunned

Photo: Marissa Baecker /Kelowna Rockets Images

The Kelowna Rockets snapped a 2-2 with three goals over the final 10 minutes Monday in a 5-2 victory over the Victoria Royals in a Family Day matinee in the provincial capital.

Deadlocked at 2-2, Ethan Ernst was able to keep the puck in at the Victoria blueline and threw a pass into the slot for Dallon Wilton. He found Kyle Topping alone in front, who beat Brock Gould with what proved to be the game winner.

Mark Liwiski and Connor Bruggen-Cate sealed the win with goals 81 seconds apart late in the third.

Lassi Thomson opened the scoring midway through the first, as the Rockets took a 1-0 lead into the dressing room.

Kody McDonald tied it before Schael Higson, playing in his 300th Western Hockey League game, restored the one-goal lead.

Kaid Oliver got that one back eight minutes into the third before the Rockets exploded to win going away.

James Porter turned away 26 shots for the victory.

The Rockets earned the win despite still dressing just 18 for the game. They continue to be without Ted Brennan, Liam Kindree and defenceman Matt Barberis.

Monday's win keeps the Rockets four points up on fourth place Kamloops, after the Blazers also won Monday. The second place Royals are now just eight points up on Kelowna.

The Rockets and Royals meet again Tuesday before Kelowna swing south for a Friday date with the Spokane Chiefs.

They're back home Saturday for a key four-pointer with the Blazers.