Spokane Chiefs Stay Unbeaten Against Winterhawks

Spokane extended its strong Western Hockey League start Friday with a 2-1 victory over Portland at Numerica Veterans Arena. The Chiefs improved to 9-1-0-0, while the Winterhawks moved to 5-3-1-1. After a balanced opening period, Spokane controlled more of the action through the final two periods.

Owen Martin put Spokane ahead 3:52 into the game, scoring on a backhand with help from Tyus Sparks and Nolan Saunderson. It was Martin’s seventh goal this season. Portland answered about three minutes afterward as Will McLaughlin collected a loose puck near the goal and finished the chance. Bryson Roberts restored Spokane’s lead early in the second with a long slap shot from the right side, recording the first goal of his career.

The physical edge increased late in the opening period when Brody Gillespie and Luke Wilfley received fighting majors. Officials assessed 17 penalties from that point forward. Spokane finished with a 40-19 shots advantage but converted none of its eight power plays as Portland goalie Ondrej Stebetak held firm. The Chiefs played the final five minutes with a man advantage following separate four-minute and five-minute Portland penalties. Spokane welcomes Portland back Saturday for a 6:05 p.m. puck drop.