Kelowna Rockets edge Spokane in shootout

KELOWNA – The Kelowna Rockets defeated the Spokane Chiefs 4-3 in a shootout on Saturday night, Feb. 28, at Prospera Place in Kelowna, winning its 44th game of the season.

Tomas Soustal and Justin Kirkland each scored in the shootout as Kelowna improved to 44-16-3-0 on the season to remain in first place overall in the WHL.

Michael Herringer stopped both shooters he faced to earn the win.

The game was tied 2-2 after the first and second periods as the team's exchanged goals in the opening frame.

Jonathan Smart and Dillon Dube scored first period goals for the Rockets while Rourke Chartier scored early in the third period to give the Rockets a 3-2 lead. Spokane tied it late, forcing overtime and the shootout.

With 44 wins, the Rockets inch closer to a CHL record for consecutive 50 win seasons. The Rockets need six wins in its final nine games to set the record.

The Rockets are back in action next weekend with a home and home set with the Kamloops Blazers as the two teams meet in Kamloops next Friday before playing in Kelowna on Saturday night.

Tickets are available for the game through www.selectyourtickets.com, at the Prospera Place box office or by phone at 250-762-5050.