It was a memorable debut for Prince George Spruce Kings rookie forward Patrick Cozzi who suited up in his first BCHL game against the RBC Cup hosts the Chilliwack Chiefs.
The 19-year-old American tallied two goals during a 5-5 draw on Friday at the Rolling Mix Concrete Arena (RMCA).
The first goal came from Chilliwack Captain Will Claverley, netting his first of three only 26 seconds in.
Cozzi finished off a passing play from line mates Ben Brar and Dustin Manz.
His second of the night came off a deflection in front of the net after Dylan Anhorn’s wrister from the blue line.
Cozzi says it was nice to cut his teeth at the Junior A ranks with a heated Mainland Division rivalry.
“They are a really good team but I thought we outplayed them all game, we were fast and very prepared. It was a really good game to be apart of.”
“With the New Jersey Avalanche, it was a midget team that really prepared us for the next level; it’s a lot faster and a lot more physical up here but I think with the training camp and development camp we had, all of the exhibition games prepared us for that first one.”
The Spruce Kings took the point on home ice after blowing a 4-2 lead in the second period and were forced to tie it up on a 6 on 4 power play goal from Liam Watson-Brawn.
Prince George outshot Chilliwack, 39-30.
The same teams meet again tonight at the RMCA; game time is slated for 7 p.m.
