Dante De Caria | Photo: Alicia Baas Photography
Powell River, BC – The Powell River Kings (8-10) snapped their seven game losing-streak after 4-1 come from behind win over the Prince George Spruce Kings (5-8-3) on Thursday night at the Hap Parker Arena.
Derek Krall made his Kings 2019-20 debut, and earned the first win, making 25-saves on 26-shots in the win. Down 1-0 in the second period, Krall stacked the pads and robbed Nolan Welsh on a 2-on-1 rush.
“I’ve never done that before, and it was a supper bold play that I’ve seen done in the NHL,” smiled Krall following the save of his career. “I’m glad it worked out, but there are easier ways to make that save.”
That went onto be a huge momentum boost for the Kings as Jacob Slipec tied the game just minutes later. Jack Brackett gave the Kings a 2-1 lead early in the third after Davis Pennington sprung the RPI commit on a breakaway, and he beat Jett Alexander five-hole.
“I liked the fact that we waited and set up,” said Kings assistant coach Brock Sawyer on Brackett’s game winner. “We got organized, hit him in stride. He’s had those opportunities and he finally capitalized with a huge goal for us.”
Krall arrived less than 24-hours before puck drop after he was acquired from the Penticton Vees and said he felt right at home prior to his first start with the Kings.
“I’m familiar with the town as I played here before. I stayed with the Longs (Jack Longs family) which helped, and I’m supper pumped to be here. It’s been a long last 24-hours, but I couldn’t ask for anything more, finishing with a win.”
Michael Abgrall tallied two assists, while Rowan Miller scored an insurance marker late, and Ben Wozney scored the empty netter.
The Powell River Kings are back in action tomorrow night (Friday) against the Vernon Vipers who have won five straight games. Puck drop is at 7:00 p.m., inside the Hap Parker Arena, while on 95.7 Coast FM and Hockey TV
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