West Kelowna clinched a playoff spot with a 6-2 victory in Powell River on Friday.
The Warriors’ top line of Max French, Marcus Basara, and Seb Lloyd carried the mail offensively, generating five of six goals and 11 points among the trio.
Seb Lloyd scored twice in the first period to pace the West K. attack. French scored the eventual game-winner and then added a late empty netter. Marcus Basara was named the first star of the game, providing four assists.
The unit swept the three stars honours a night after being stoned by Chiefs goalie Mitch Gillam in Chilliwack. “Last night we were snake bit” French acknowledged afterwards. “Tonight the bounces went our way.
Defenceman Josh Monk and forward Danny Gayle also scored for the guests.
Matthew Dupont and Matt Scarth responded for the Kings.
Steven Myland earned his second win in four starts with the Warriors, making 42 saves in his best performance to date.
“We had a few lulled periods there, and he really kept us in during those moments” French suggests. “He played a great game.”
Above all, of course, the Warriors’ Captain is thrilled to be heading back to the post-season.
“It’s huge for us” French grinned. “It’s nice to have a bounce-back year, and to be able to clinch with some (8) games left in the season.
Still, the Warriors Captain isn’t satisfied with merely qualifying for the big dance. “Now we have to get the ball rolling and put together some streaks and really get rolling.”
Despite the triumph, the Warriors have put the champagne on ice for now.
The team boards a ferry early Sunday morning to wrap up their coastal road trip with a matinee in Alberni Valley.
Visit The General’s Report for more on the win, the playoffs, and the West Kelowna Warriors.
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