233050
WHL  

Rockets down Chiefs in SO

The Kelowna Rockets stretched their lead over the Kamloops Blazers Friday, earning a 4-3 shootout win in Spokane.

The win, coupled with the Blazers 2-1 shootout loss to Prince George, pushed the Rockets five points up on Kamloops in the battle for third in the BC Division.

Lassi Thomson and Nolan Foote both scored in the shootout, while James Porter stopped both Spokane shooters to secure the win.

The Rockets appeared to have the game well in hand, holding a 3-1 lead late in the third period.

But, goals from Luke Toporowski at 14:36, and Luc Smith with just 27 seconds left in regulation pulled the Chiefs even, and forced overtime.

Neither team was able to score during the extra five minute, three-on-three overtime period.

Leif Mattson got the Rockets on the board early, notching his 21st of the season just past the five minute mark of the opening frame.

The Chiefs tied it minutes later with the man advantage.

The Rockets used their own power play in the second to build a two-goal lead.

Nolan Foote with his team-leading 30th, and Alex Swetlikoff with his third both scored with the man advantage to give Kelowna the two-goal lead.

Porter, named the game's third star, turned away 40 shots to go along with the two he knocked away in the shootout.

The Rockets are back home for a key four-pointer Saturday against the Blazers.

Kelowna have just nine games remaining in the regular season, including three against the Blazers. Kamloops  also hold three games in hand.



More WHL articles



231274