The Victoria Royals are coming home with momentum after a huge game two victory in Spokane, tying up their second-round WHL playoff series with a 5-1 win over the Chiefs on Monday night.
Goaltender Johnny Hicks was once again a difference maker between the pipes. The 19-year-old stopped 40 of 41 shots, including several highlight-reel saves in the third period to shut the door on any chance of a Chiefs comeback.
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It was a game where special teams took centre stage—and the Royals owned it.
Victoria’s powerplay went a perfect 3-for-3, while the penalty kill shut down all four of Spokane’s man-advantage opportunities. That edge proved crucial in what started as a tightly contested matchup before the Royals broke it open.
Kenta Isogai opened the scoring with his fourth of the playoffs, assisted by Cole Reschny and Teydon Trembecky. The Royals continued to press, with Justin Kipkie striking from the point and Markus Loponen—who’s been stepping up offensively as a forward—burying his third of the post-season. Brayden Boehm and Reggie Newman added third-period markers to seal the deal—Newman’s tally being his first of the post-season.
Berkly Catton scored the lone goal for the Chiefs in the second period.
It was a surprise start in net for Spokane, as playoff regular Dawson Cowan left after warmups due to an apparent injury. Carter Esler stepped in for the Chiefs but was unable to slow down Victoria’s potent powerplay.
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With the series now tied 1-1, the Royals head back to Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre for game three this Wednesday night at 7 p.m., Royals will also host game four on Friday and game five on Saturday.
Victoria fans—grab your tickets and get loud. The boys are coming home.
