RECAP: Shamrocks win opening game of Island rivalry

15  8

The Nanaimo Timbermen started the season with all the momentum in the world going into the first all-Island rivalry game of the season. Turns out they didn't know they would run into the world-beaters that are the Victoria Shamrocks.

The 'Rocks put on an explosive display of offence, putting up seven goals in the first 20 minutes alone. The goal-scoring wealth was mostly shared by three players - Patrick Dodds, Ben Preston and Austin Madronic all had four goals - while nine players all put up at least one assist. They also played some solid D, limiting the red-hot T-Men offence to just 37 shots, with just 11 of them coming in the 3rd period. 

Nanaimo looked like they would have a bit of life near the beginning parts of the 2nd period. Three straight goals cut the lead to 7-4 and it looked like the T-Men would give the 'Rocks a game. But everytime Nanaimo inched closer on the scoreboard, Victoria would restore their lead. A trio of power play markers in the 3rd period put things out of reach.

Cam Dunkerley continued his strong start to the season by making 29 saves on 37 shots for a .784 SV%. Colin Jeffrey faced 51 shots and turned 36 of them aside in the loss. 

Both teams are back in action on Saturday as Victoria hosts the Burnaby Lakers, while Nanaimo hosts Langley.