Rockets down Wheat Kings, take 2-0 series lead

The Kelowna Rockets defeated the Brandon Wheat Kings to take a 2-0 series lead in the WHL Championship series.

BRANDON, Man. — Nick Merkley’s short-handed goal midway through the third period was the eventual winner as the Kelowna Rockets held on for a 5-3 victory over the Brandon Wheat Kings on Saturday in Game 2 of the Western Hockey League final.

Kelowna now leads the series 2-0 and will host Game 3 on Wednesday.

It was Merkley’s second goal of the game, after scoring at 19:57 of the first period to give the Rockets a lead heading into the intermission.

Rourke Chartier, Gage Quinney and Edmonton Oilers prospect Leon Draisaitl — into an empty net — rounded out the attack.

Peter Quenneville scored twice in the third period for Brandon — including once on the power play. Tim McGauley added the other.

Kelowna’s Jackson Whistle turned away 38 shots for the win in goal while Jordan Papirny kicked out 26-of-30 shots in 59:01 for the Wheat Kings.

The Rockets didn’t have any power-play opportunities in the game, while Brandon went 1 for 4.

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