The Victoria Grizzlies solidified their grip on first place in the BCHL's Island Division Friday night in front of 1,244 spectators at Rolling Mix Concrete Arena, defeating the host Prince George Spruce Kings 4-1.
Tyler Welsh potted two goals and an assist to lead the Grizzles to their 19th win of the season. Cole Pickup and Jamie Rome fired singles for Victoria.
Defenceman Tyler Anderson was the lone marksman for the Spruce Kings, who fired 39 shots at goalie Matthw Galajda. Tavin Grant took the loss in the Prince George nets, making 25 saves.
Welsh gave Victoria a 2-0 lead after two periods. Anderson made it a one-goal game 13:43 into the third period on a Kings' power play but that's as close as they got.
Pickup, at even strength, and Rome, on a Victoria power play, capped the scoring late in the game.
The Grizzlies improved their record to 19-5-2-3. The loss was the second of the week for the Spruce Kings (14-12-1-2), who dropped a 3-2 decision Thursday at home to the Chilliwack Chiefs.
The Kings return to the RMCA next Thursday and Friday when they host the Langley Rivermen in a two-game set.
