April 8th, 2026 – Jordan Dobrew
The Chilliwack Chiefs have defeated the Coquitlam Express 5-2 in BCHL Playoff action.
This first round series game set for a crucial game 4 from the Train Station, as the Express looked to avoid finding them selves trailing 3-1 in the series. And they’d get off to a hot start. As Justin Ivanusec tipped home the Express’ first powerplay goal of the series just 1:51 into the game to make it 1-0 Express. But halfway through the period the Express found themselves shorthanded. And it’d be A.J. Schaff who answers back for Chilliwack as the teams trade powerplay goals in the 1st period. Leaving us tied 1-1 after 20 minutes.
Coquitlam found themselves on their second man advantage of the game early in the 2nd. And the powerplay stayed hot to kick off this game. As Will Distad fired a one timer for his 1st of the playoffs to put the Express back on top 2-1. But it’d the special teams paying off once again in this game. As the Chiefs answered back with another powerplay goal of their own from Markuss Sieradzkis to tie the game back up. It’d be another tightly contested middle frame as both teams looked for the go ahead goal. But this game would head to the 3rd period tied 2-2.
It was anyones game in this 3rd as the Express looked to clinch a win on home ice to even up the series. They’d take an early penalty in the 3rd, but the penalty kill came up big to keep the game tied. The Express then saw back to back powerplays and a great chance to shift momentum in their direction. But the Chiefs capitalized off a defensive zone turnover, as A.J. Schaff picks up his 2nd of the night shorthanded to make it 3-2 Chiefs. And they weren’t done yet. Just 36 seconds later Nico Grabas jammed home his 2nd of the playoff to make it 4-2 Chiefs. They’d review the goal, but the call would stand. Coquitlam tried for a late game push, but Jack Plandowski cashed in on the empty net. As Chilliwack takes game 4 5-2 and takes a commanding 3-1 series lead.
The series now shifts back to Chilliwack on Friday, April 10th for a 7:00 PM puck drop. As the Express will look to keep their season alive and force a game 6.
