SAANICH - The Oceanside Generals staved off elimination in North Saanich Monday night as they skated to a decisive 7-2 win over the Peninsula Panthers.
Down three games to none in their best of seven VIJHL opening round series, it was win or go home for the Save On Foods crew, who brought their work boots to the rink and kept their season alive for at least one more game anyway.
Captain clutch Kyle Yamasaki struck for two goals in the opening period for a 2-0 Oceanside lead after 20 minutes; Peninsula got one back 37 seconds into the 2nd, and Nick Bell bulged the twine three times in just over six minutes to give the Gens a 5-1 lead heading into the final frame.
The Panthers scored early in the 3d to cut it to 5-2, but the Generals nailed down the win with goals by Noah Russi and Conor Enright.
Oceanside outshot Peninsula 29-23 on the night. Michael Gudmandson picked up his first playoff win in net as a Gen.
Oceanside was 4-for-10 on the power play, the Panthers 0-for-9.
GAME ON: The Generals return home to Oceanside Place Tuesday looking to extend their series against the Panthers. Puck drops at 7:30 p.m.