Rutherford shines for Chiefs

Wed., Jan. 30, 2008

The Spokesman-Review

KAMLOOPS, British Columbia – David Rutherford scored with 5 minutes, 42 seconds remaining in the third period to lift the Spokane Chiefs to a 2-1 victory over the Kamloops Blazers in Western Hockey League play Tuesday night at the Interior Savings Centre.

Central Valley High product Tyler Johnson assisted on Rutherford’s game-winning goal, a one-timer from the low slot, as Spokane improved to 37-10-1-3 (78 points) on the season. The Chiefs lead second-place Tri-City by five points in the U.S. Division and are eight points in front of Vancouver in the Western Conference race.

Spokane goalie Dustin Tokarski was again stellar in the net, stopping 27 of 28 shots and earning his 21st victory of the season. Tokarski entered the game with the second-lowest goals against average – 1.98. He trails only Vancouver’s Tyson Sexsmith (1.95) in that category.

Chris Bruton staked the Chiefs to a 1-0 lead just 2:41 into the match with his 20th goal of the season. Stefan Ulmer assisted on the score.

Kamloops pulled even on a goal by Nick Ross with 11 seconds remaining in the first.

Spokane increased its winning streak to five – its third longest of the season. The Chiefs were 0 for 4 on the power play, while Kamloops was 0 for 2.

Rutherford’s goal was his 11th of the year.

Spokane boasts its best record in franchise history after 51 games.

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Rutherford shines for Chiefs

Jesse Tinsley

Jim Meehan

Molly Quinn

Rob Curley

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