Chiefs’ losing streak against Portland reaches 12

The clock struck 12 on the Spokane Chiefs on Friday night in Portland.

The Portland Winterhawks built a 3-0 first-period lead and held off the Chiefs 6-4 in Western Hockey League play.

Counting postseason, the Chiefs have dropped 12 consecutive games to Portland. They are 0-4 against Portland this season. Spokane’s last victory over Portland came on Jan. 23.

The Chiefs (16-8-0-1, 33 points) fought back in the second period with three goals, two assisted by WHL points leader Mitch Holmberg (59).

Mike Aviani’s third shorthanded goal of the season cut Portland’s lead to 5-4 at 8:24 of the third. The Winterhawks (18-5-1-1, 38 points) added a power-play, empty-netter with 19 seconds left.

• Carson Willans and Robson Cramer scored twice apiece to lead Nelson (19-1-1-3 KIJHL) to a 5-1 win over the Spokane Braves (7-14-0-3) at Eagles Ice-A-Rena.