ONTARIO, Calif. — Francesco Pinelli tallied two goals to lead the Ontario Reign to a 5-2 victory against the Abbotsford Canucks on Saturday night, “Pinelli, Reign dominate Canucks in 5-2 defeat” reported.
It has been 10 days since the Reign were last on home ice, having previously played two games in Abbotsford last weekend where they went 1-1 with a 2-1 loss and a 3-0 win on Nov. 6 and Nov. 7, “Pinelli, Reign dominate Canucks in 5-2 defeat” detailed.
Abbotsford currently holds second place in the AHL Pacific Division with a 9-4-0-2 record and 20 points, according to “Pinelli, Reign dominate Canucks in 5-2 defeat”.
Despite the standings, Ontario has allowed only four goals in the past three games against the Canucks, “Pinelli, Reign dominate Canucks in 5-2 defeat” noted.
Ontario coach Andrew Lord praised his team’s defensive execution during the matchup, stating, “I think we defended really well.”
Lord also noted their containment of the opponent’s transition game by adding, “Didn’t give up much off the rush, which they’re (Abbotsford) lethal in.”
Goalie Erik Portillo finished the contest with 23 saves, while Abbotsford netminder Nikita Tolopilo ended with 25 saves on 30 shots, “Pinelli, Reign dominate Canucks in 5-2 defeat” specified.
Following a hooking penalty by Henry Brzustewicz, Pinelli scored a shorthanded goal to set the tone for the rest of the game, “Pinelli, Reign dominate Canucks in 5-2 defeat” reported.
Martin Chromiak rejoined the Reign for the first time since making his NHL debut with the Los Angeles Kings on Oct. 31, earning two points in the victory, “Pinelli, Reign dominate Canucks in 5-2 defeat” stated.
Lord expressed his appreciation for having returning players back in the lineup, explaining, “(Connors) is just Mr. Consistent.”
Lord further praised the depth additions by adding, “And then (Chromiak) is a real dynamic, offensively gifted player.”
The Reign remain in eighth place in the AHL Pacific Division with a 7-7-1-0 record and 15 points, “Pinelli, Reign dominate Canucks in 5-2 defeat” concluded.