Image: Gary Dorland, supplied by Nanaimo News Now / Nanaimo goalie Shane Shelest made 36 saves and Jeremie Payant had a goal and two assists as the Clippers posted a 3-1 win over the Chilliwack Chiefs in Game 5 of their playoff series. Chilliwack hosts Game 6 Sunday night at the Chilliwack Coliseum at 5 p.m. 
BCHL playoffs

Nanaimo wins 3-1, as playoff series with Chilliwack tightens

Apr 22, 2023 | 8:03 AM

NANAIMO — On the verge of playoff elimination, Nanaimo captured its second straight must-win game Friday night.

The Clippers emerged with a 3-1 win over the Chilliwack Chiefs Friday night behind 36 saves from Shane Shelest and timely offense from playmaker Jeremie Payant, who had a goal and two assists.

Nanaimo trails Chilliwack 3-2 in the BCHL playoff series.

Shelest surrendered a breakaway goal from Chiefs forward Michael La Starza 14 minutes into the game and slammed the door shut the rest of the way.

Chilliwack’s lead lasted only 32 seconds before Joel Plante registered first goal of the playoffs to even the game at 1-1.

In the second period, Shelest made important saves in tight on Tim Delay and Mason Kesselring.

Then, with the Clippers a man short, Jeremie Payant snapped a wrist shot high over the glove of Lucas Szyszka to give Nanaimo a lead they would not relinquish.

The Chiefs’ best chance in the third was on an in close opportunity by Bryan Jones who was shut down by Shelest.

Ethan Mistry extended Nanaimo’s lead to 3-1 with an empty netter with two seconds left in the game.

The series returns to the Chilliwack Coliseum Sunday night (Apr. 23) when the Chiefs host the Clippers at 5 p.m. Buy tickets online at chilliwackchiefs.net or in person.