Everett Silvertips edge Kamloops Blazers 2-1

Jan 20, 2016 | 9:33 PM

KAMLOOPS — The Kamloops Blazers (22-16-4-3) could not solve goaltender Carter Hart in a 2-1 home ice loss to the Everett Silvertips (28-12-2-2). 

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The Blazers struck on their first shot of the game. Ryan Rehill gave a great feed to Jake Kryski and he made a terrific pass to Quinn Benjafield as he shovelled in his fifth goal of the season 2:47 into the first period. 

Graham Millar tied the game up midway through the first period. He pounced on a loose puck and beat goaltender Connor Ingram to the stick side. Ingram may have been interfered with on the play, but no call was made. 

The second period was scoreless, but a good period for the Blazers. They outshot the ‘Tips 11-9 in the frame and had a couple of good looks on the power play. 

Goaltender Carter Hart was solid for the ‘Tips in the period. He smothered virtually every shot, rarely giving up a second chance. 

The ‘Tips got a break as they took the lead 3:43 into the third period. Matt Fonteyne raced around a Blazers defender for a partial breakaway. His attempt was stoned by goaltender Connor Ingram. The Blazers mishandled the rebound, and the puck ended up in the back of the Blazers net. 

The push was on for the Blazers in the third period as they enjoyed a lot of offensive zone time.

The Blazers outshot the ‘Tips 17-6 in the period, but it was not enough as they fell 2-1 in the game. 

Both teams finished the night 0-for-3 on the power play, while the Blazers outshot the ‘Tips 34-27. 

The Blazers will move ahead to the weekend as they will play a doubleheader in Prince George on Friday and Saturday night.