Victoria, BC ~ The Victoria Grizzlies host the Nanaimo Clippers tonight from the Q Centre in an effort to reincarnate what was a splendid performance last night in a 3-0 shutout win over Alberni Valley.
The Clippers roll into town after an overtime win last night over the Langley Rivermen from the Frank Cran Arena in Nanaimo. However they have lost six of their last eight and there have certainly been questions raised about this team from up island who seemed poised to compete.
Goaltending had been an issue for them this year, with superstar goaltender Chaz Nixon not quite being able to find his groove so far. He was great last night however making 33 saves on 34 shots and securing the win. The Clippers also signed Finnish netminder Otto Nuto to try and find some security in the crease.
Victoria is now 4-1-1 in their last six and with their victory last night, they sit 4th in the Coastal Conference with a 9-5-2 record. Nanaimo comes in at ninth with a 5-8-2 record.
Last night Oliver Auyeung-Ashton tied the franchise lead for shutouts in a career as he turned aside all 29 shots he faced for his 7th career doughnut. Tyler Hodges will make the start tonight for his 12th appearance of the season between the pipes. Hodges started against his former Clippers team on the 4th of October and was splendid stopping 28 of 30 shots and picking up the win. Hodges however has not won since, carrying an 0-5-2 record since.
Victoria eliminated the Clippers from the post season last year and they hope that their recent momentum and dominance over the team from the Harbour City will continue tonight.
