One-goal losses don’t equate to many points

Guilty look is displayed by the Caps’ Grant Nicholson, but he’s innocent of any infraction against Nanaimo’s Taylor Grobowski Saturday at Cowichan Arena.

Andrew Leong

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Mathematics may be the Cowichan Valley Capitals’ least favourite subject right now.

The main numbers that count are the Caps’ point total of 12 that’s the lowest in the B.C. Hockey League.

Upon closer examination, it’s obvious the Caps are only failing most tests by the slightest of fractions.

After losing 2-1 in overtime at Nanaimo Friday but gaining a point and then dropping another 2-1 decision in regulation to the same Clippers Saturday night at Cowichan Arena, the Caps are a mere -10 in the goals for and against department with eight more losses than wins.

It doesn’t take a genius to figure out the Caps are in every game, but it’s just not going their way.

“It’s a goal every night,’’ said Caps’ head coach Jim Ingram. “The last four losses have been by a goal. It’s frustrating for the kids, too, no question.’’

The total number of one-goal losses for the season has already reached eight.

By comparison, Trail is -43 but has seven more points than the Caps and Salmon Arm sits at -22 with four more points.

“I guess we’re just not getting puck luck right now,’’ said Caps’ veteran goalie Derek Dun, who was a standout in both weekend games. “A couple of bounces here and there and we’re on the other side of it.

“I think the mood’s still pretty good. We’re still a few bounces away from having a winning record.’’

Dun made 53 saves in Nanaimo, but the Clippers got the win in double overtime on a goal by Colton Dahlen. He kicked out 25 more shots Saturday, but Nanaimo’s Jayson Argue turned a 33-save effort into the victory in the rematch.

“I’m feeling confident right now,’’ said Dun. “As long as I give my team a chance to win, that’s all I can do.

“I give a lot of credit to the defence. They’re making it simple for me.’’

The defence received a boost with the addition of local product and Dallas Stars’ draft choice Alex Theriau from the Western Hockey League’s Medicine Hat Tigers.

“He provides the confidence back there,’’ said Dun. “He can help the younger guys.’’

“He’s going to be outstanding,’’ said Ingram of the 20-year-old.

The Caps have a light schedule the next two weeks. Their lone game this weekend is at home to the Langley Rivermen Saturday.