iSight Optometry Game Recap: Rockets Drop First of Back to Back 4–2
The Kelowna Rockets dropped the first of back-to-back games against the Victoria Royals on Friday night, falling 4–2 at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre.
Despite outshooting the Royals 37–28 and controlling large stretches of play, special teams proved to be the difference as Victoria capitalized on one of six power plays, while Kelowna was held off the scoresheet with the man advantage.
GAME SUMMARY
Tij Iginla led the Rockets offense with both goals, continuing his hot streak. His first came less than a minute into the second period, when he picked off a defender’s pass and roofed it shortside on a two-on-one rush. Iginla followed up minutes later with his second of the night, as a puck redirected off a Royals skate and in with Peyton Kettles driving hard to the net to tie the game at 2–2.
Levi Benson appeared to give the Rockets the lead midway through the third, deflecting in a point shot from Kalder Varga for what appeared to be his first of the season, but the goal was overturned after a lengthy review for a hand pass earlier in the play.
Victoria’s Hayden Moore completed a hat trick performance, including an empty-netter to seal the result.
ADDITIONAL STATS
Shots: Kelowna 37 | Victoria 28
Power Play: Kelowna 0/6 | Victoria 1/6
Faceoffs: Kelowna 27 | Victoria 30
UP NEXT
The Rockets and Royals meet again tomorrow afternoon in Victoria. Puck drop is set for 4:05 p.m. Fans can watch live for free on Victory+ or listen on 104.7 The Lizard.
