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Express clinch top spot in BCHL standings

The Coquitlam Express beat the Penticton Vees 3-2 on Friday in Penticton to clinch top stop in the overall BC Hockey League standings.
Clay Stevenson Coquitlam Express goalie
Coquitlam Express goalie Clay Stevenson set a franchise record by winning his 30th game Friday against the Penticton Vees.

The Coquitlam Express beat the Penticton Vees 3-2 on Friday in Penticton to clinch top stop in the overall BC Hockey League standings.

It was Coquitlam’s 44th victory of the season and it assures the team of home ice advantage throughout the post-season.

After the team’s exchanged goals in each of the first two periods, Greg Lapointe scored what proved to be the game winner 2:59 into the final frame when he was able to get behind Penticton’s defence and beat Vees goaltender Yanev Perets. Adam Trotman and Cooper Connell scored Coquitlam’s other goals, both on power plays.

Clay Stevenson made 41 saves to win his 30th game of the season, the most ever by an Express netminder. It was also his last game for the team as he takes on a volunteer mentorship role so he can retain his full university eligiblity after he turns 21-years-old on March 3.

Coquitlam fired 30 shots at Perets.

The Express play Trail on Saturday, then return to play its final home game of the regular season on Wednesday, against the Surrey Eagles, 7:15 p.m., at the Poirier Sport and Leisure Complex.