Holmberg lifts Chiefs in opener

KENNEWICK, Wash. - Mitch Holmberg capped a three-point period with a goal in the final minute of the decisive second period as the Spokane Chiefs outscored the Tri-City Americans 4-0 on the way to a 5-2 win in the Western Hockey League opener for both in front of 5,722 on Saturday night at the Toyota Center.

After a scoreless first period, Spokane opened the scoring on a Todd Fiddler goal at the 9:38 mark of the second and Liam Stewart scored on a power play at the 17:22 mark - both assisted by Holmberg.

Mike Aviani scoring less than a minute later on a rebound as the Chiefs outshot the Americans 17-4 in the period.

Spokane faces Tri-City again next Saturday at the Spokane Arena at 7 p.m.