Chiefs fall to Tri-City in season opener

KENNEWICK, Wash. - Spokane scored first, but gave up three power-play goals and an empty-netter as the Chiefs fell to the Tri-City Americans 4-1 in the Western Hockey League opener for both teams Saturday night before 5,599 at Toyota Center.

Anthony Bardaro of Spokane opened the scoring on a power-play goal 14:33 into the game.

The Chiefs gave up two power-play goals in the second period - the second on a 5-on-3 advantage for Tri-City.

Connor Rankin made it 3-1 Tri-City midway through the third period on another power-play goal. Moments after Mitch Holmberg of Spokane hit the post, Adam Hughesman of Tri-City scored an empty-net goal with 1:18 left.

Tri-City was 3 for 6 on the power play; Spokane was 1 for 4.

Mac Engel had 22 saves for Spokane, which returns to action Saturday in its home opener against Tri-City.