VICTORIA, B.C. – The Ontario Reign, proud affiliate of the NHL Los Angeles Kings, was defeated by the Victoria Salmon Kings, 2-1, on Friday evening at Save-On Foods Memorial Centre before a crowd of 3,952 fans.

In his first game back with the Reign since appearing in four games with the Providence Bruins (AHL), right wing Jon Rheault netted the first goal of the game at 9:07 in the first period. His unassisted, shorthanded goal gave the Reign an early 1-0 lead.

Victoria claimed the next two goals in the match and took a 2-1 lead over Ontario. Only eight seconds out of the penalty box, center Mike Hamilton scored the Salmon Kings’ first goal of the night and tied the game at one with an assist from defenseman Jimmy Sharrow. Left wing Scott Howes broke the tie 35 seconds into the third period. Howes’ first bid was saved by Ontario netminder Curtis Darling, but he was able to pick up the rebound and send it over the goal line with a backhand shot. Defenseman Gary Gladue and center Adam Taylor registered the assists on what would be the game-winning goal for Victoria.

The Reign pulled Curtis Darling for the extra attacker with less than a minute remaining in the third period, but was unable to beat Victoria goaltender David Shantz before the clock hit zero. Victoria claimed the victory with a final score of Salmon Kings 2, Reign 1.

Three stars:
1. VIC – Scott Howes
2. ONT – Jon Rheault
3. VIC – Mike Hamilton