Bell bulges the twine - twice

Myles Bell was acquired from the Regina Pats in September to provide an offensive spark on the Rockets defensive core. The 18 year-old did just that Friday night with two goals and an assist in a 5-2 win against the Victoria Royals. Bell fired home two goals in two very different ways. One came courtesy of a quick snap shot in the second period before hammering one home with a slap shot just over a minute into the third period to break open a 2-2 tie. The win, the Rockets second straight, extended the Royals losing streak to 8 games.

Bell has four goals and three assists in four games against the Royals this season. He had a goal and two assists October 14th in Victoria.

The Rockets couldn't have wished for a better start with a goal 30 seconds into the game. Again, this was proof they were mentally ready. Unfortunately, the Rockets couldn't build on that start and ended up going into the dressing room with a slim 1- 0 lead. Better to be up than down by a goal heading into the intermission.

The second period saw the Royals fall into penalty trouble and the Rockets enjoying a prolonged 5 on 3. The save that kept the Royals in it was Keith Hamilton's shoulder stop against Brett Bulmer when the puck was labeled for the high right corner.

The poise the Rockets showed heading into the third period was impressive. While they were no where close to being in control of the game heading into the third period - they gave up a goal late in the second to make it 2-2 - they looked like they had the confidence and resolve to win. Again, an encouraging sign for a team that won for only the 6th time on the road this season.

Adam Brown made several solid saves in the third period when the Royals attempted to battle back. That's where your veteran goaltender is of such value. You have to make the routine saves, but being steady and not allowing a 'squeaker', which can really take the air out of your tires, was a reason why the Rockets won for the 16th time this season. Brown was named the games third star.

Forward Jessey Astles left the game in the second period and didn't return after he was hit from the side and appeared to strike his head against the glass.

The Royals played their first game without Jesse Pauls. Pauls retired this week after suffering a series of injuries, including a broken leg that needed surgery.