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The Kelowna Chiefs are off to a strong start as they posted a pair of wins to open the Kootenay International Hockey League season over the weekend.

Photo: Contributed - Kelowna Chiefs

The Kelowna Chiefs opened the KIJHL season with a pair of victories.

On Saturday, September 15, the Chiefs hammered the Fernie Ghostriders 8–1 in their home opener at Rutland Arena, thanks to four power play goals.

Mitchell Barker led the way for Kelowna with three goals and an assist.  Kevin Lenzin, Jordan Lingel, Brady Mende, Kyle Clerke, and Jordan Salahor also scored in the one-sided affair.

Chiefs veteran PJ Lawler racked up three assists while goaltender Tyler O’Donnell faced 30 shots on net.

Scoring the lone goal for Fernie was Joel Burgess.

Saturday's win followed a season opening win on the road over Summerland. Kelowna defeated the Steam 3–0 on Friday as O’Donnell earned his first shutout of the season.

Quade Hamlin, Chase Astorino and Kyle Clerke had the Chief's markers.

Next weekend, the Chiefs will visit Princeton on Friday, September 21 and then return to Rutland Arena the following night when they host Columbia Valley.