The Grizzlies’ goaltender made 39 saves and Tyson Schamehorn scored the game’s only goal as Victoria improved to 4–0.
It was not the Victoria Grizzlies’ prettiest victory of the young season. It may have been their grittiest.
After departing The Q Centre at 6 a.m. and spending much of the day travelling, the Grizzlies found a way to earn a 1–0 road victory over the Powell River Kings on Sunday afternoon.
Victoria-born forward Tyson Schamehorn supplied the only offence the Grizzlies needed.
The rest belonged to Mikus Vecvanags.
The Montreal Canadiens draft pick turned aside all 39 shots he faced, repeatedly denying the Kings as Powell River pushed for the tying goal. The shutout was Vecvanags’ first of the season and the second of his BCHL career.
“We weren’t at our best today, and Mikus was the difference,” said Grizzlies Head Coach and General Manager Geoff Grimwood. “It was a long day with an early departure and a lot of travel, but our group stayed together and found a way to get the job done. Good teams have to win games in different ways. Today required some grit, commitment and outstanding goaltending.”
The victory completed another perfect weekend for Victoria following Friday night’s 4–2 Home Opener win over the Surrey Eagles.
Schamehorn, with the game winner, has now scored in back-to-back games after recording his first BCHL goal Friday night at The Q Centre.
Vecvanags improved to 4–0 on the season and has allowed just four goals through Victoria’s opening four games, stopping 117 of 121 shots on the young season.
The Grizzlies return home Saturday, October 3 to host the Okotoks Oilers on Country Night at The Q Centre. Come ride the inflatable bull pre-game. Puck drop is set for 6 pm.
Game Summary
- Victoria 1, Powell River 0
- Victoria goal: Tyson Schamehorn
- Goaltending: Mikus Vecvanags — 39 saves, shutout
- Victoria record: 4–0–0–0, 1st place Coastal West / 1st Place Coastal Conference
