Vernon & Powell River Meet In BCHL League Finals:

The Interior Conference Champion Vernon Vipers will face the Coastal Conference Champion Powell River Kings in the BCHL League Finals. The Kings knocked of the Victoria Grizzlies tonight in Game 7 to win the series 4-3. The Fred Page Cup begins with Games 1 & 2 Friday & Saturday in Powell River.

BCHL Finals Not So Kind To Vipers In Recent Years:

Vernon’s Junior Hockey Team’s have made the BCHL League Finals 15 times since 1970 with a record of 9-6, Since the Vernon Vipers won the League Title back in 1996 & 1999 Vernon has struggled in the Finals only winning once back in 2003. Since 99 the Vipers are 1-4 in league Finals. Vernon will be going for a league record 10th BCHL Championship this weekend vs the winner of Victoria or Powell River. Vernon & Penticton have the most League Titles with 9 each.

Here’s a look back at Vernon’s run to the League Championship:

1970 Vernon Essos defeated Victoria 4-2
1972 Vernon Essos defeated Penticton 4-3
1988 Vernon Lakers defeated Richmond 4-1
1989 Vernon Lakers defeated New Westminister 4-1
1990 New Westminister defeated Vernon Lakers 4-2
1991 Vernon Lakers defeated Powell River 4-0
1992 Vernon Lakers defeated Bellingham 4-0
1996 Vernon Vipers defeated Langley 4-1
1997 Surrey defeated Vernon Vipers 4-1
1999 Vernon Vipers defeated Chilliwack 4-1
2000 Chilliwack defeated Vernon Vipers 4-1
2002 Chilliwack defeated Vernon Vipers 4-2
2003 Vernon Vipers defeated Chilliwack 4-0
2005 Surrey defeated Vernon Vipers 4-1
2007 Nanaimo defeated Vernon Vipers 4-2

Vipers Playoff Video Highlites VS Salmon Arm:

Here's a look back at some Playoff video highlites between the Vernon Vipers & Salmon Arm Silverbacks in the Interior Conference Finals.

http://bchl.insinc.com/show/player.php

Hammond Named BCHL Player Of The Week:

This is on the BCHL website:

Vernon Vipers netminder Andrew Hammond has been named the British Columbia Hockey League Player of the Week for the week ending March 29th, the league announced Monday.

Hammond recorded three victories last week in his team's six-game Interior Conference Final series win over the Salmon Arm Silverbacks, including two shutouts and a pair of first star performances.

In total, the 20-year old posted a 3-1 record, a goals-against average of 1.00 and a .969 save-percentage in four games.

Hammond was the recipient of the BCHL's Top Goaltender Award this season after leading all netminders with a 2.30 GAA during the regular season while compiling a 27-12-1 record.

The Vipers are now awaiting the winner of the Coastal Conference Final in order to determine their opponent for the Fred Page Cup, which begins Friday at the home of the Coastal winner.

Vipers Add Depth For 2025:

This is on the Vipers website:

Vipers add depth for 2025 by viper staff Added 2009-03-30

The Vernon Vipers would like to welcome the youngest Viper to the roster, Goalie Coach Sean Matile and Wife are proud parents of a baby boy born early Sunday morning. The 7lb 10oz youngster, to be named at a later date, is happy and healthy and doing great with the first time parents. The Vipers staff would like to congratulate the Matile family and look forward to seeing the newest addition to the Viper family at all the upcoming Vipers home games.

Vipers Face Winner Of Tuesdays Game 7:

The Vernon Vipers are heading to the Coast for Games 1 & 2 of the BCHL Fred Page Cup wich start Friday & Saturday in either Powell River or Victoria. Both these two teams have a Game 7 Tuesday night in Victoria to decide a winner. The Grizzlies forced a Game 7 coming back down 3-1 in the series. Victoria who clinched top spot in the BCHL during the regular season (43-13-1-3), also are hosts of this years Royal Bank Cup wich is held in Victoria. The Grizzlies scored 237 goals during the regular season, giving up 159. Powell River (39-16-1-4) won the Mainland Division with 83 pts as one of the top teams in the BCHL. The Kings scored a league high 251 goals in the regular season, while giving up 184. Incase your wondering, the Vipers lost 4-2 in Powell River back on September 24th & defeated Victoria at home 3-1 on October 25th

Vernon Vipers 2009 Interior Conference Champions:

Vipers Captain Chris Crowell Accepts the Ryan Hatfield Memorial Trophy as Interior Conference Champions from John Grisdale last night at the Sunwave Centre, as Vernon defeated Salmon Arm in 6 games.

Vipers Book Date With Fred Page:

This is on the Morning Star website:

Vipers book date with Fred Page

By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star

SALMON ARM – Connor Jones turned the hat-trick as the Vernon Vipers iced the Salmon Arm SilverBacks 3-1 in Game 6 to claim the B.C. Hockey League Interior Conference title Saturday night at the Sunwave Centre.
The Vipers will await the winner of the Victoria Grizzlies-Powell River Kings Coastal Conference final, which will conclude with Game 7 Tuesday night in Victoria.
The winner of that series will host Games 1 and 2 of the best-of-seven Fred Page Cup Championship starting Friday.
Jones put the Snakes on the board at 2:58 of the first. After winning a draw back to the Adam Thompson, Jones deflected the point shot far side past netminder Bryan Gillis.
Jones’ second came in the second frame when he collected a loose puck on Gillis’ doorstep and calmly slid the puck under the Salmon Arm netminder.
The Montrose product sealed the win with an empty-netter from just inside his blueline with less than a minute remaining.
The Vipers were without injured players Mike Collins (head), Cameron Brodie (foot) and Ryan Santana (shoulder). They dressed Enderby product Nick Amies as a seventh defenceman to bolster their ranks.
The SilverBacks were without Bobby Lipsett and Brent Vandenberg, who was suspended for a brutal hit he put on Collins in Game 5.
The Snakes last competed for the Fred Page Cup in 2006-07, falling to the Nanaimo Clippers in six games. They last won it was in 2003.
Meanwhile, the Grizzlies grounded the host Kings 5-2 Friday night at the Recreation Complex to force Game 7.
Catch the complete Game 6 recap in the Wednesday, April 1 edition of The Morning Star.

Vipers Weather SilverBack Storm:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers weather SilverBack storm

Vernon Morning Star

Scoring the first goal doesn’t always guarantee victory, but when you get goaltending like what the Vernon Vipers’ Andrew Hammond provided Friday night at Wesbild Centre, sometimes it just doesn’t matter.
Hammond turned aside 43 shots as the Snakes outlasted the Salmon Arm SilverBacks 3-0 in Game 5 of their best-of-seven B.C. Hockey League Interior Conference final.
A total of 3,300 fans watched as the Vipers weathered a storm from the Gorillas – they were outshot, outhit and, for good chunks of the game, they were hemmed in their own end – yet they didn’t buckle.
Vernon’s Robbie Short cracked the pressure relief valve with a pair of third-period goals to put the Snakes one win away from a Fred Page Cup final with either the Powell River Kings or Victoria Grizzlies.
The Vipers took it to Salmon Arm early, hitting anything that wasn’t wearing home white, building up a 9-3 shot count midway through the first frame.
Salmon Arm netminder Bryan Gillis (30 saves) was swallowing rebounds and protecting the puck like it was his first-born. He denied Braden Pimm on the doorstep after Adam Thompson rifled a point shot that dropped in front of the veteran forward.
The Vipers opened the scoring when Kellen Jones, with one hand on his stick, deflected a crisp slap pass from Cody Ikkala at the side wall at 8:20.
After that, the momentum began to swing Salmon Arm’s way, as the Vernon allowed the ‘Backs to come at them in waves.
“There’s times when they were in our zone for long periods of time... but they wouldn’t get many shots off,” said Hammond. “Our defence was strong tonight at keeping them to the outside, and any time they did get a really good chance, there were a couple guys there for me.
“The guys are making the sacrifices that are making me play better and making me want to play better for them.”
Hammond’s best save came late in the second frame when Brent Vandenberg fed Travis Briard from behind the net, only to have Hammond come out to get an arm on his one-timer from the slot.
“I didn’t have to come up with that big save too much tonight. I think I made two real big ones that helped the team out... but guys made it easy for me.”
Added Vipers’ assistant coach Jason Williamson: “Yeah, they get 40-something shots, but not too many second or third opportunities.
“If they’re going to be in our own zone with them on the outside, we’ll play that way. They weren’t getting too many grade A opportunities, so we can still take a positive from that.”
Late in the first, Vandenberg caught Vipers’ forward Mike Collins with his head down on a late hit. Collins struggled to leave the ice and did not return. He was questionable for Saturday’s Game 6 at the Sunwave Centre.
Referee Jim Maniago handed Vandenberg a minor for charging, but the Vipers have sent the video to be reviewed by the BCHL.
“Those are the kind of hits we want out of the game,” said Williamson. “It starts at the NHL level and is working its way down. Our guys don’t play that way, and it’s been all series long they’re taking runs at our guys heads.
“Our guys can step up and battle through it, but it’s tough to lose a player of (Collins’) calibre.”
This series has had more hits than Elvis, and it has taken its toll on both teams. The Snakes have lost energy forward Ryan Santana and bruising blueliner Cameron Brodie, while the SilverBacks have been without Bobby Lipsett and Travis Briard (he returned for Game 5).
“I don’t think I’ve seen a game where there’s not something after every whistle,” said Short. “We know they’re going to bring it every night, and have to match that and exceed that.
“They’re getting tired and so are we, so we’ve just got to stick to our game-plan. Whoever wants it more is going to get it.”
Added Salmon Arm’s David Killip: “Everybody’s got their bumps and bruises, but when you have a rivalry like this, it’s pretty easy to get up.
“It’s heartbreaking when you lose a game like that. We thought we played a pretty good game and created a lot of chances, but they played well enough to win tonight.”
Salmon Arm head coach Rylan Ferster was left wondering what more his players could do. It’s the second game in this series where Hammond has stolen the show.
“It was almost a carbon copy of Game 3 (3-0 loss in Salmon Arm),” said Ferster. “I liked our game tonight. I just told our guys ‘I don’t think there’s much more we can do.’
“That team over there blocked a lot of shots and they got really solid goaltending. Full marks to them.”
Cole Ikkala had the Vipers’ best chance in the second period, but had his stick lifted at the last second on his breakaway attempt.
The SilverBacks had a goal waved off midway through the third as it was deflected in by a high stick.
A few minutes later, on a rare Vipers’ foray into Salmon Arm’s zone, Short made a great second effort to strip a defender of a rebound before going top shelf with a beauty backhand over Gillis’ blocker.
James Kerr started the play with a centering pass for Cory Kane, who was denied by Gillis from the slot.
“Robbie and Kaner (Cory Kane) battle to make sure they find a way to get the puck, and when they get it, they’re in a prime scoring opportunity,” said Williamson. “That’s huge.”
Short, who has 4+5 in eight playoff games, iced it with an empty-netter with 30 seconds remaining.
“They were playing us close tonight, so it’s definitely nice to get the second one to get that insurance,” said Short. “They’ve got big slow defencemen, so we just push it in deep and try to get working down low below their net.
“We know we can shut them down, we’ve got Hammy in the back end, and we’re ready win 1-0.
“They’ve got small, fast (forwards), and we’ve got to push them to the outside, and we’ll let them stay out there because we know Hammy’s going to block shots from out there.”
Meanwhile, the host Grizzlies avoided elimination in their Coastal Conference final with a 4-1 Game 5 win over the Kings Friday night at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre.
The Kings held a 3-1 series lead heading into Game 6 Saturday at the Powell River Recreation Complex.
It took the Kings’ Chad Niddery just 14 seconds to open the scoring before 2,575 fans Friday, but it was all Victoria after that.
First star Jonathan Milhouse fired the first of four-straight Grizzlies’ goals at 3:44 of the second frame.
Third-period markers by Tyler Gubb, assisted by Myles McRae, Derek Lee, assisted by Shawn Stuart and Milhouse, and Gubb, on an empty-netter, put the game out of reach.
Grizz netminder Anthony Grieco made 19 saves.

SNAKEBITES: Vernon born and raised Larry Kwong, 85, received a standing ovation as he dropped the ceremonial puck before the game. Kwong broke race barriers in 1948 when he became the first player of Asian decent to play in the NHL. He played one shift in the third period with the New York Rangers. He is also the first-ever Vernon minor hockey product to reach the NHL...Vipers’ d-man Cameron Brodie (foot) took the pre-game skate in Game 5, but didn’t play. He was questionable for Game 6...Powell River has the top-three postseason scorers. Darcy Oakes leads with 11-12-23 in 10 postseason games, with Kyle Bodie (17 points) and Clay Harvey (15 points) are second and third respectively. Kellen Jones is Vernon’s top sniper with 5-6-11, with Chris Crowell, Sahir Gill and Connor Jones all at 10 points each.

Interior Conference Finals: Game 6 Vernon 3 Salmon Arm 1

Was at tonights Game 6 of the Interior Conference Finals as Vernon defeated Salmon Arm 3-1 in front of the second largest crowd in Silverbacks history, 2,108 were at the Sunwave Centre.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon: Andrew Hammond
Salmon Arm: Bryan Gillis

1st Period: Off the opening draw Vernon would get the puck in deep, Chris Crowell with a shot from the side boards just about caught Bryan Gillis off guard as the Vipers with a good early scoring chance. Both teams looked good in the early few minutes, Connor Jones would open the scoring at 2:58 after a nice tip wich beat Bryan Gillis. Adam Thompson & Kellen Jones with the assists. The first goal of the game was key, this goal gave the Vipers some big momentum wich seemed to carry them through tonights game. The Vipers would get the first powerplay of the game, with some good puck movement couldnt beat Gillis. Salmon Arm would go down two men as Vernon would get a two man advantage, the Vipers moved the puck well, Connor Jones with a shot from the slot was stopped by Gillis. Kyle Bigos with a big blast from the point was also stopped by Gillis who played well. The Backs would kill off both minors. Both teams went back and forth but it was the Vipers who had the better scoring chances. The Silverbacks would get their first powerplay of the night but it would be the Vipers with the best scoring chance, Braden Pimm all alone in front had Bryan Gillis down and out as Gillis come across with a big glove save keeping the puck out. The Vipers penalty kill played well with some big shot blocks. Vernon would kill off the minor. The Silverbacks had some chances but didnt get many quality chances. Rob Short with a great scoring chance was stopped by Gillis. Vernon come to play tonight, the Vipers kept pace with Salmon Arm, really skating hard, playing physical and winning most of the one on one battles. Mark Zengerle with a tip in front, just missed the net as the Backs come very close to tying the game. Kevin Kraus dove down to block a shot, taking a puck off the head, Kraus who has been a warrior for the Vipers, went to the dressing room but returned for his next shift. A very entertaining 1st as Vernon was up 1-0 after 20 minutes of play. Vipers outshot the Silverbacks 13-8.

2nd Period: Connor Jones would score his 2nd goal of the night 1:43 into the period on the powerplay, Jones was left alone in front, beating Gillis fivehole. Sahir Gill & Kellen Jones would collect the assists. Vernon looked very good on the man advantage, moved the puck well with some good passing. Vernon was the better of the two teams in the 2nd, the Vipers defence did an excellent job at shutting down the Backs offence. The Vipers who are very strong and very dominate when they get the cycle going, got the puck in deep on several occasions playing with that cycle down low. The line of Sahir Gill, Connor and Kellen Jones really looked good down low as the Silverbacks had all kinds of trouble containing the Vipers top unit. Braden Pimm looked very good with and without the puck all night, Pimm with some good hustle stole the puck from the Backs defence several times, causing a turnover wich resulted in a Vipers scoring chance. Vernon carried the better of the play looking very good on the forecheck. Salmon Arm didnt seem to have their legs going for the first time all series, the Backs couldnt seem to get any bounces. Max Grassi, Keenan Desmet and Mark Zengerle went in three on one, Grassi kept and fired but couldnt beat Andrew Hammond. The Silverbacks with two powerplays were having trouble getting pucks through the Vernon defence. The Vipers penalty kill looked very strong killing off both minors. Salmon Arm would get a late powerplay but couldnt solve Hammond as the penalty would continue into the 3rd. Chris Crowell come up with a big shot block in the dying seconds, Crowell would head off limping. Vernon was up 2-0 after 40 minutes of play. Shots were even at 11 each.

3rd Period: The Vipers were now 20 minutes away from clinching their second Interior Division Championship in the last three seasons. The Backs with still 49 seconds remaining on the powerplay couldnt capitalize as the Vipers would get a big kill early to start the 3rd. Vernon would get an early powerplay but once again couldnt bury their chances on the PP. Vernon seemed to have Salmon Arm on the ropes as the Backs didnt have much life as the Vipers were getting the puck in deep, really cycling the puck down low, eating time off the clock. James Kerr with a turnover just inside the Silverbacks blueline, resulted in a goal. The play would turn up ice as Salmon Arm would get the play in deep, a Vernon d-man would fall behind the net, with a scramble in front Colin Lidster would sneak a puck past Andrew Hammond at 4:09 getting the Silverbacks on the scoreboard as Andrew Hammonds shutout minutes ended at 119.11 Matt Wray & Justin Cseter picked up the Backs assists. This goal gave the Silverbacks life & got the crowd back into the game, as Salmon Arm really stepped up their play. The Backs started skating, buzzing around the Vipers net. Keenan Desmet with a chance in front was stopped by Hammond. Max Grassi really stepped up his play, rushing the puck up ice on several occasions. Grassi looked very good in his final junior hockey game. Vernon didnt back down, Rob Short & Braden Pimm on a two on one had a great chance to regain their two goal lead, Short with a nice pass but Pimm just missed the net. The Vipers had some great odd man rushes in the 3rd but couldnt capitalize. Salmon Arm had several chances in close with some mad scrambles, Hammond was down and out on with a ton of traffic in front but the Backs couldnt get the bounce as the puck stayed out. Max Grassi with a blast from the point couldnt beat Hammond who looked very solid. Connor Jones had a great chance in the second half but was stopped by Gillis. Kellen Jones was robbed by Gillis at the side of the net as Gillis was keeping the Silverbacks in tonights contest. Colin Lidster had a great chance in front but was stopped by Hammond. Conor Morrison couldnt connect on the crease pass on a great chance in front of a open net. Salmon Arm would get one last powerplay with eight minutes remaining but had troubles getting pucks through the traffic in front, give the Vipers credit they did a great job at clogging up the middle, doing a great job at blocking shots. Connor Jones with a huge shot block at the blueline forced the puck out wich killed off the minor. A very exciting final period as both teams played with alot of heart and determination, with some great action at both ends of the rink. Sahir Gill, Connor and Kellen Jones with a three on one had a great chance to put the Silverbacks away, Connor setup Gill who instead of shooting, went back to Connor for the pass wich resulted in a turnover. In the final few minutes Max Grassi went end to end, Grassi stepped over the line and wired a shot wich went off the end of Hammonds stick. Chris Crowell come down the right wing and wired a shot from the circle but Bryan Gillis made the big blocker save. The Backs would pull Gillis in the final minute and a half with the Silverbacks putting presure in the Vernon zone, Connor Jones would steal the puck and from his own end hit the empty net at 19:16 for his 3rd of the night to seal the Vipers victory. The goal was unassisted, this was the Vipers first hat trick of the season. As the buzzer sounded the Vipers would pour onto the ice to celebrate the series clinching victory with Andrew Hammond. Vernon would outshoot Salmon Arm 15-11 The Vipers defeated the Silverbacks in six games winning the Interior Division Championship for the 2nd time in three years. Chris Cowell didnt touch or take the Ryan Hatfield Memorial trophy as he got his picture taken and then skated away.

Top Players: (Vernon)

Kevin Kraus was a warrior the last two games. Kraus who was beatup in last nights game and then takes a puck off the side of the head tonight, sucks it up and continues the game. Kraus played very well defensivly, showed alot of heart and character.

Mike Leidl played a very solid defensive game.

James Kerr looked very good up front. Was really skating well.

Connor Jones (3 goals) What a performance from this young man, Connor was hit hard, took a beating all series. Another kid who is a warrior. Connor played physical, looked very good at both ends of the rink, very solid on the penalty kill, come up with a few big block shots.

Braden Pimm stepped up his play and it showed. Pimm was a workhorse tonight, was skating hard, showed alot of determination all game, caused many turnovers inside the Backs line. Had some great chances in and around the net but couldnt finish. Played very well on the penalty kill and on the draw.

Kellen Jones another kid who was a warrior tonight. Kellen looked very good at both ends of the rink. Setup his brother Connor on two out of the three Vernon goals. Kellen looked very good in the attacking zone, caused some big turnovers during the 2nd period.

Sahir Gill played well on the Vipers top line. This line was very dominate with the cycle down low, Ive said it many times before, when the Vipers play with the cycle down low, they are very hard to beat and very dangerous.

Chris Crowell played physical, took a few shots off the shins, made a few big blocks. Was a warrior down low and in the corners. Played very well all night.

Rob Short played his second straight solid game. Short was very good with the puck, made some nice moves for a few good scoring chances.

Adam Thompson played another good defensive game on the blueline. Has really stepped up his play.

Andrew Hammond played another stellar game, didnt have many big saves to make but made the ones he needed too. Hammond was by far the Vipers MVP in this series.

Top Players: (Salmon Arm)

Bryan Gillis was by far the Silverbacks best player tonight. Gillis kept the Backs in tonights game, giving them a chance to win. Come up with some key saves while on the penalty kill and then robbed a few Vipers on several odd man rushes in the 2nd and 3rd periods. Gillis played his final Junior hockey game in a Silverbacks jersey.

Matt Grassi looked very good defensivly and offensivly all night, after the Salmon Arm goal, Grassi really stepped up his play, looking very dangerous with the puck, was involved in the play alot tonight. Another Silverback veteran player who wont be back next season.

Jason Beatie played very well on the blueline tonight. Beatie was physical, really added that gritt the Backs needed in front of the net. Beatie is another player who wont be back next season.

Colin Lidster (1 goal) I thought played well this series and looked good tonight. Used his body in and around the net, had a few chances.

Game Thoughts: (Vernon)

This was by far the best performance & effort the Vipers put in all series. What a gutsy effort tonight, alot of guys stepped up their play. Nick Amies didnt see a single shift, Steven Weinstein and Kory Roy were lucky if they saw two maybe three shifts all night. The Vipers basically went with three lines, in the 3rd Mark Ferner went with his top two lines. Scoring the first goal was key, especially just three minutes into the game, A- you get the crowd out of the game and B-the Vipers are so strong playing with the lead. In 40 games that the Vipers have led going into the third period this season, they have won 38, tied 1, and lost 1 in overtime. Vernon really matched the Silverbacks for most of the night, in most of the games this series the Vipers were outhit, outworked and outplayed at times. Not tonight, the Vipers looked very good, played physical, outworked the Backs for most of tonights game. Won alot of draws, one on one battles and had alot of odd man rushes, wich Salmon Arm usally dosnt give up. The Vipers played a solid road game and deserved the win, how sweet it is to win the Interior Division Championship at the Sunwave Centre. Congrats Boys, very well deserved!!

Game Thoughts: (Salmon Arm)

First off Id like to thank the Salmon Arm Silverbacks hockey club and their fans for a great series. Since joining the league, this has been one of the biggest rivalries in the BCHL. This was just the second Playoff meeting between these two teams as each team has now won a series. Id like to wish the veteran 20 yr olds, and the players who wont be back next season all the best in their hockey careers. Id also like to thank the Silverback fans who come on this message board and have kept me informed on all the Silverbacks news, trades and scores and also for the many much appreciated updates during any Vernon-Salmon Arm games. Now back to the game, the Silverbacks didnt get any bounces or breaks tonight, until scoring early in the 3rd Salmon Arm really didnt have much jump, and didnt have their legs going until the goal wich seemed to give them life. I thought the Backs looked tired at times, Rylan Ferster was mixing his lines all night, the Backs had troubles scoring all series getting shutout twice, only scoring eight goals all series. Salmon Arms top line who killed the Vipers in the regular season was no where to be seen this series. Salmon Arms powerplay really struggled, going 0-6 tonight and 1-26 in the series. The Backs seemed to light up the Vipers on the powerplay during the regular season, this was one of the teams strong points. Salmon Arm had some chances but were very limited at times, through out the first two periods. It wasnt until the 3rd when they had some good chances down low. In the end the Silverbacks made it close, making for one heck of a nail biter. This series was very entertaining and more like a war, as both teams and both cities dont like one another. The Vipers come out bruised and beaten up after taking a pounding from the Silverbacks.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Cameron Brodie (Injured)
Ryan Santana (Injured)
Mike Collins (Injured)

Salmon Arm:

Mike Puddifant
Levi Hantula
Brent Vandenberg (Suspended)
Bobby Lipsett

3 Stars:

1st Star: Connor Jones (3 goals)
2nd Star: Bryan Gillis (36 saves)
3rd Star: Andrew Hammond (30 saves)

Interior Conference Finals: Game 6 Vernon @ Salmon Arm: (Game Preview)

Vernon (7-3) @ Salmon Arm (6-4)

Tonight is the biggest game of the season for both teams. A win by the Vipers and they clinch the Interior Division Championship and move on to the BCHL Fred Page Cup. A loss by the Silverbacks and their season is over. With a injured and beaten lineup the Vipers will have to pull out another gutsy effort tonight at the Sunwave Centre. Depending on injuries the Vipers could have some new faces in tonights lineup. Vernon needs to be better on the powerplay and create and generate more offence, unlike last night playing most of the 2nd & 3rd periods in their end. Salmon Arm will pull out all the stops tonight to try and force a Game 7 back in Vernon Tuesday night. The Backs played very good last night having a chance at taking the 3-2 series lead but couldn’t solve Andrew Hammond. The Silverbacks will once again have to try and beat the veteran goaltender, get lots of pucks towards the net, and create traffic in front of Hammond. The Backs will be playing desperate hockey tonight with their season on the line, you can bet they put forward their best effort of the season. You can listen to tonights broadcast on 107.5 Kiss FM with Todd Miller, starting at 7:15pm

Heres a look at the series:

March 20th @ Vernon: Game 1: Salmon Arm wins 3-2 Overtime

The Silverbacks took it to the Vipers early and often but were down 1-0 after the 1st period outshooting the Vipers 10-3. Salmon Arm outplayed, outhit and outchanced the Vipers in the 2nd period but could only muster one goal, a later goal by Bobby Lipsett as the Backs could have easily been up 4-1. With the score tied 1-1 heading into the 3rd this was anyones game. Vernon finally started to get their legs going, playing their best hockey of the game as both teams had some good chances. Chris Crowell would score his 2nd of the night at 16:14 as the Vipers jumped ahead but hold on, the Backs didn’t fold the tents, superpest Zac Rasmussen would tie the game under 40 seconds later sending the game to Overtime. Braden Pimm with a two on one couldn’t score the OT winner and shortly after Zac Rasmussen would tip a shot past Andrew Hammond sending the Silverbacks home with the Game 1 victory.

http://www.bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=678207

March 21st @ Vernon: Game 2: Vernon wins 5-1

The Vipers turned around a poor performance in Game 1 with a solid effort in a 501 victory in Game 2. Specialty teams was the difference in the 1st period with Chris Crowell & Mike Collins powerplay goals giving Vernon a 2-1 lead after 20 minutes of play. Vernon would kill off a huge two man advantage in the 2nd period wich was the turning point of tonights hockey game, as Vernon headed into the 3rd up 2-1. The Silverbacks couldn’t stay out of the penalty box as the Vipers would score three 3rd period goals on route to a 5-1 victory. Bryan Gillis took the loss making 26 saves. Andrew Hammond made 19 saves getting the win. Mike Collins, Connor Jones, Braden Pimm, & Kellen Jones all lead the Vipers scoring attack with two points each. In the dying seconds Zac Rasmussen pushed Mike Collins into Andrew Hammond wich erupted a mini line brawl as punches were throwen, as both teams tempers started to boil over. This should lead to a very entertaining Game 3 Tuesday night in Salmon Arm.

http://www.bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=678208

March 24th @ Salmon Arm: Game 3: Vernon wins 3-0

Cory Kanes 2nd period goal at 4:28 was the game winner as the Vipers defeated the Silverbacks 3-0. Andrew Hammond was the difference collecting 1st star along with 33 saves in the Vernon net. Vernons penalty kill was solid as the Backs went 0-7 with the man advantage. Salmon Arm outplayed and outworked the Vipers for most of the night but couldn’t buy a bounce falling 2-1 in the best of 7 series. Salmon Arm had many great scoring opportunities but couldn’t solve Hammond. Cole Ikkala and Connor Jones (empty net) would round out Vernons scoring in the 3rd period.

http://www.bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=678209

March 25th @ Salmon Arm: Game 4: Salmon Arm wins 3-1

Keenan Desmet with two and Max Grassi with a powerplay goal lead the scoring for the Silverbacks. Bryan Gillis made 23 saves getting the victory. Andrew Hammond made 22 saves in the loss. Braden Pimm scored the lone Viper goal. The Vipers would struggle with the man advantage going 1-8 on the powerplay. The Vipers were without Cameron Brodie who was out of the lineup. The Vipers did get some good news with the return of Kevin Kraus. Once again the Vipers were outhit for most of tonights game, as the Backs really forced the Vipers, clogging up the neutral zone and in front of the net as the Vipers shots were coming from the outside. The Vipers are going to have to get a little more emotion and intensity tonight, something that was lacking in Game 4.

http://www.bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=678212

March 27th @ Vernon: Game 5: Vernon wins 3-0

The largest crowd of the season (3,306) saw Kellen Jones 1st period goal stand up to be the game winner as the Vipers defeated the Silverbacks 3-0 to take a 3-2 series lead heading into tonights game. Rob Short had the other two Viper goals in the 3rd. Andrew Hammond was stellar all night making 43 saves picking up the victory. Bryan Gillis took the loss making 31 saves. Vernon would get hit by the injury bug yet again after Mike Collins would leave tonights game after taking a questionable hit from Brent Vandenberg in the 1st period. Kevin Kraus appeared to have injured his leg, twice in tonights game, but was a true warrior staying in the game. After a back and forth 1st period with both teams getting some chances, it was all Silverbacks in the 2nd and 3rd periods as the Backs outplayed the Vipers but couldn’t solve Andrew Hammond.

http://www.bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=678216


Key Players To Watch:

Vernon:

Sahir Gill 10 pts
Kellen Jones 11 pts
Connor Jones 10 pts
Chris Crowell 10 pts
Mike Collins 8 pts
Cory Kane 9 pts
Braden Pimm 8 pts
Rob Short 9 pts
Cameron Brodie 2 pts

Andrew Hammond 7-3 Record 1.66 GAA

Salmon Arm:

Conor Morrison 14 pts
Justin Cseter 10 pts
Zac Rasmussen 7 pts
Ashford McMaster 7 pts
Keenan Desmet 7 pts
Brent Vandenberg 3 pts

Matt Grassi 4 pts

Mark Zengerle 4 pts

Bryan Gillis 6-3 Record 2.77 GAA

Kyle St Denis Injury Update:

This is posted on Regan Bartels Kelowna Rockets Blog,

In a time where injuries are a deep dark secret, Kelowna Rockets general manager Bruce Hamilton isn't hiding behind the fact that forward Kyle St. Denis is struggling with a concussion.Hamilton told me this morning that St. Denis has undergone an MRI and has seen a neurologist after suffering a concussion over a month ago. "He still struggles with post concussion syndrome. When we played in Calgary, we felt he was ready to play and then the night before in Red Deer he was complaining about the noise in the building, so we shut him down again".Hamilton added, "It's a terrible injury to have. We sent him back to his home in Trail this week to get some home cooking from his mom. He's going into three solid days of feeling good, so he will return to Kelowna Sunday where he will undergo an assessment next week. He needs to be symptom free for seven days before he can practice"St. Denis was injured February 18th against the Chilliwack Bruins.

Interior Conference Finals: Game 5 : Vernon 3 Salmon Arm 0

Was at tonights Game 5 of the Interior Conference Finals as Vernon defeated Salmon Arm 3-0 in front of 3,306 fans at the Wesbild Centre.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon: Andrew Hammond
Salmon Arm: Bryan Gillis

1st Period: Both teams had lots of jump, skating hard with the play going back and forth. Some good cycle by both teams in the early goings getting some good chances in close. The Vipers would get the first powerplay of the night but for the second straight game would struggle as the Silverbacks would kill off the minor. Vernon with good puck movement in the Backs zone created some good chances down low as Vernon was up in shots 8-2. Once again Salmon Arm continued with the high hits, Matt Walters with two big elbows and then Brent Vandenberg with a very questionable hit on Mike Collins. Vandenberg rushed up ice, and charged towards Collins who's back was towards the play, Vandenberg's feet left the ice as he blindsided Collins who went down and didnt see another shift. Collins left the hockey game and never returned. The Vipers would come to Collins rescue with some pushing and shoving as Vernon would come out on top with its second man advantage of the night. Salmon Arm would kill off the minor as the Backs would now generate some offence in the Vernon zone, getting some chances. Keenan Desmet with a chance in close was stopped by Andrew Hammond. Kellen Jones would open the scoring at 8:20 after tipping Cody Ikkala's shot past Bryan Gillis putting the Vipers up 1-0. Ikkala would get the lone assist. This goal was the result of both Connor and Kellen Jones hard work and determination. Kellen Jones kept the play alive making a big check at the blueline, the puck would get fired back in front, where Connor Jones was in front of Bryan Gillis. Gillis was paying more attention to Connor rather then watching the play, Gillis gave Connor two taps with his stick, seconds later Ikkala's shot was tipped past Gillis by Kellen Jones. A great hard working shift by the Jones twins. The Backs would battle back getting some pucks towards the net, as Salmon Arm come back in shots as it was now 10-9 in favor of Vernon. Braden Pimm come close to putting Vernon up 2-0 after a shot went off Pimm's shins in front as the puck just steared wide of the goal. A very physical period with both teams laying some good hard hits, the Silverbacks have played a very physical series where as this was by far the most physical period we have seen the Vipers play. Vernons defence turned over the puck in their own end atleast four different times, as the Backs come close to scoring. Braden Pimm with a big shot block hobbled off the ice in some pain but stayed in the game after walking it off. Both teams played with caution as nobody wanted to make a mistake in a very entertaining period. Vernon was up 1-0 after 20 minutes of play. The Vipers outshot the Silverbacks 12-11.

2nd Period: Connor Jones with a good scoring chance early was stopped by Gillis. The Vipers would get an early powerplay but once again couldnt control the play as the Backs would kill off another minor as the Vipers would go 0-3 on the powerplay. A bit of a slower pace period with lots of whistles and stopages in play in the first half of the period, some four on four play would open the ice at times. Salmon Arm would get its first powerplay of the night, the Backs with a solid powerplay, moved the puck well but couldnt beat Hammond. The Silverbacks would get a second man advantage but couldnt capitalize as the Vipers penalty kill looked good. Vernon would kill off the minor. The Vipers would get a scare as Kevin Kraus went down on one leg, Kraus couldnt get off the ice, Kraus would finally hobble off on one leg after a stopage in play. Kraus stayed on the Vipers bench for a few minutes but would return to the ice on his next shift. The Silverbacks continued with the cheap shots as Andrew Hammond would take a slash in the back of the leg with traffic in the crease. Hammond would stay down as the teams trainer would come out to check him over, Graeme Gordon started getting out his equipment, but didnt need it as Hammond would get up stay in goal. Over the next several minutes Hammond looked to be favoring his left leg, as the period went on Hammonds leg seemed to be fine. The Silverbacks looked very good generating all kinds off offence this period. The Vipers seemed to be hemmed in their own zone for most of the 2nd as the Backs outplayed the Vipers. Hammond had to be sharp and ready making some key saves keeping Vernon in the game. The Silverbacks would carry most of the play, as the Vipers would only get three good scoring chances, one of these was Cole Ikkala on the breakaway but was stopped by Gillis. Conor Morrison was stoned by Hammond at the side of the net after the Vipers couldnt clear the zone. Travis Briard in the slot had a glorious chance with three and a half minutes remaining was robbed by the left pad of Andrew Hammond. Vernon looked very tired in the later parts of the 2nd. Salmon Arm couldnt seem to get any bounces go their way as they were still down 1-0 after 40 minutes of play. The Vipers outshot the Silverbacks 14-12.

3rd Period: Vernon was now 20 minutes away from taking the 3-2 series lead as the Backs looked desperate but yet hungry basically manhandling the Vipers with their speed, skill, physical play and overall hard work. Salmon Arm come out flying getting chance after chance but couldnt solve Hammond. Keenan Desmet who played a strong game had two great chances. Conor Morrison was stopped in close. The Vipers were basically hanging on to the 1-0 lead as Salmon Arm was all over Vernon. The Silverbacks were winning all the races, one on one battles basically pushing the Vipers around looking like the much stronger hockey club. Kevin Kraus made a huge defensive play, clearing the loose puck out from the crease after Hammond was down and out, and had no idea where the puck was. Kraus was a warrior all game, basically playing on one leg. The Vipers looked very tired, and beaten up having all kinds of troubles generating any offence. At times Vernon would get the puck in deep and eat the clock, keeping the puck between their skates along the end wall, but couldnt seem to get the puck towards the net. On a broken play and huge determination local product Rob Short made a few nice moves and then beat Bryan Gillis at 14:05 upstairs putting Vernon up 2-0, Cory Kane and James Kerr collected the assists. This play all started with the strong play and great hustle by James Kerr. The Silverbacks didnt quit pouring on the presure, once again buzzing around the Vipers net. Vernon finally got the puck in deep and cycyled the puck down low, killing off some valuable time off the clock. Justin Cseter was moved up to the Backs top line in the 3rd after Mark Zengerle was taken off to the clubs 2nd line. Cseter added some jump and energy to Salmon Arms top line, but couldnt solve Andrew Hammond who made 20 saves in the final period. Salmon Arm would call a timeout late and with under two minutes remaining Bryan Gillis would head to the bench for the extra attacker, The Silverbacks with some good puck movement couldnt get any real quality chances before Rob Short would hit the empty net at 19:30 to get his 2nd of the night. Captain Chris Crowell with the lone assist. In the dying seconds Crowell would take a puck off the shins and hobble to the bench, on the same play superpest Zac Rasmussen wacked Hammond on the arm with another cheap shot on the Vipers. Vernon would hang on for the 3-0 victory taking the 3-2 series lead. Andrew Hammond makes 43 saves for his 2nd shutout of the BCHL Playoffs. Salmon Arm outshot Vernon 20-7.

Top Players: (Vernon)

Kevin Kraus with basically one leg was a warrior on the Vipers blueline. Kraus went down twice tonight with a leg injury but yet stayed in the game and played. Kraus looked to have injured his leg in Game 2, before sitting out Game 3 but returned to the lineup for Games 4 & 5. Kraus made a huge defensive play in the 3rd clearing the loose puck from the crease as Hammond was down and out. I got to give this young man credit for staying in the game and basically playing on one leg, what a gutsy effort.

Cole Ikkala played a solid defensive game. Ikkala made one big mistake coughing up the puck from behind his own goal, firing the puck right up the middle as two Backs were alone in front but were stopped by Hammond. Ikkala settled down after this play and played very well in his own zone.

James Kerr played with energy, really looked good on the Vipers 2nd goal. Kerr played well all night.

Connor & Kellen Jones (1 goal) both were warriors tonight and all series. These two kids may not be the biggest kids but play with a ton of heart. Both boys take a pounding game after game, shift after shift but yet get back up and keep batting, both kids also arnt afraid of the physical play, dishing it right back. Connor especially has taken a beating all series and still is going. Both kids looked very good up front and in their own end.

Rob Short saw limited icetime but come through in the 3rd scoring both goals. Short scored a real nice goal after some nice moves before beating Gillis upstairs.

Adam Thompson played one of his better games on the blueline this Playoffs. Thompson looked good in his own end.

Andrew Hammond (43 saves-shutout) What can you say about Andrew Hammond, the teams regular season MVP has played solid in these BCHL Playoffs. Hammond was by far the Vipers best player, especially in the 3rd making 20 saves for the win and the shutout. Hammond looked very confident and very focused all night. Was very good with his rebound control.

Top Players: (Salmon Arm)

Matt Grassi played a solid game on the Backs blueline. Looked very good defensivly as well as offensivly.

Keenan Desmet was by far the best Silverback tonight. Desmet was flying all night, getting some good scoring chances. Desmet was skating hard, was very dangerous with the puck, really buzzing in and around the Vernon net.

Ashford McMaster looked very solid once again on the backend. A very tough kid to play against, very strong in front of the net.

Colin Lidster looked good up front, played physical all night.

Conor Morrison looked very impressive tonight. Has really stepped up his play over the last 2-3 games. Had some good chances all night, was another player who was skating hard, creating some chances down low.

Game Thoughts: (Vernon)

This was almost a carbon copy of Game 3 in Salmon Arm. A good 1st period with both teams getting chances, some good flow at both ends of the rink before the Backs took over and basically dominated in the final two periods. The Vipers could have put tonights game away before the end of the 2nd period but once again couldnt capitalize on the powerplay, going 0-3 tonight. Up 1-0 and then getting the next three powerplays, the Vipers could have burried the Backs early. Vernon really needs to work on the PP, whats with all the passing, get more shots towards the net. A gutsy effort tonight pulling out the 3-0 win. The Vipers basically hung on to the 1-0 lead all night, riding the strong performance from Andrew Hammond. If it wasnt for Hammond this game would have been over way before the final period. Vernon looked very tired in the 2nd and 3rd periods, this team is very banged up and injured. The Vipers are without Ryan Santana (Injured) Cameron Brodie (Injured) and after tonights game, may be without Kevin Kraus, & Mike Collins. Who both were hurt in tonights game, Chris Crowell and Andrew Hammond also looked to have been hurt-injured so will see how they are. This is a depleted looking Viper team now.

Game Thoughts: (Salmon Arm)

The Silverbacks played very well tonight, played with alot of emotion and intensity. This club never backed down, battled hard all night, getting some great chances but ran into a strong goaltender. A very physical team who won most of the races and one on one battles tonight, looked very good with the puck. Salmon Arm dominated the 2nd and 3rd periods. The Vipers were having all kinds of trouble with the strong forecheck of the Backs. Vernon was basically getting pushed around for most of the night. Salmon Arm's season is now on the line and now must win the next two games if they want to move on to the next series. You can bet tomorrow nights game the Vipers will expect nothing but the best from the Backs. I have full respect for the Salmon Arm Silverbacks, this is a very good hockey club and has been all season. All year they have battled and played hard against the Vipers for 10 games, heading into these Playoffs this team has really started playing some not so clean hockey with a ton of high hits, lots of stick work and cheap shots during and after the play. I know not everyone player or team is perfect, and yes even the Vipers have their players who give out the odd cheap shot or dirty hit once in a while, but not game after game, shift after shift. This was the talk around the arena tonight. The Backs have been taking high hits towards the Jones Twins all series, Ryan Walters delivers some of the best elbows. Zac Rasmussen who is a heck of a hockey player, and one of the best superpests in the league, thats fine but dont like the cheap shots through out this series. Tonights another example, two handed a Vernon player over the head in the 1st period and then wacked Andrew Hammond in the arm in the dying seconds of the game. In Game 2 it was Rasmussen who pushed Mike Collins into Andrew Hammond at the end of the game and then went after Andrew Hammond knocking him down.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Cameron Brodie (Injured)
Nick Amies
Ryan Santana (Injured)
Trent Dorias (AP)

Salmon Arm:

Mike Puddifant
Levi Hantula
Christoper Hoe
Bobby Lipsett

3 Stars:

1st Star: Rob Short (2 goals)
2nd Star: Andrew Hammond (43 saves-shutout)
3rd Star: Kellen Jones (1 goal)

Interior Conference Finals: Game 5 Salmon Arm @ Vernon: (Game Preview)

Salmon Arm (6-3) @ Vernon (6-3)

It now comes down to the best of three as the series is tied 2-2 after Salmon Arm picked up a huge 3-1 victory in Game 4. The Vipers now have home ice advantage with two of the final three games in Vernon. Salmon Arm played its best game of the series in Game 4 with a solid 60 minute effort at both ends of the rink. The Backs penalty kill was the difference holding the Vipers to 1-8 on the PP. Salmon Arm is going to have to stay out of the box tonight, they cant keep playing shorthanded like that. The Silverbacks need to keep up the physical play, as they seem to be wearing down the Vipers who are starting to lose a few players to injuries. Vernon is going to have to do much better on the man advantage if they want to beat the Backs. The Vipers are also going to have to try and get pucks towards the net and somehow try and fight their way through the Backs aggrsive forecheck. The first goal of the game will also be key tonight. Should be a very entertaining hockey game tonight. You can listen to tonights broadcast on 107.5 Kiss FM with Todd Miller, starting at 6:45pm

Heres a look at the series:

March 20th @ Vernon: Game 1: Salmon Arm wins 3-2 Overtime

The Silverbacks took it to the Vipers early and often but were down 1-0 after the 1st period outshooting the Vipers 10-3. Salmon Arm outplayed, outhit and outchanced the Vipers in the 2nd period but could only muster one goal, a later goal by Bobby Lipsett as the Backs could have easily been up 4-1. With the score tied 1-1 heading into the 3rd this was anyones game. Vernon finally started to get their legs going, playing their best hockey of the game as both teams had some good chances. Chris Crowell would score his 2nd of the night at 16:14 as the Vipers jumped ahead but hold on, the Backs didn’t fold the tents, superpest Zac Rasmussen would tie the game under 40 seconds later sending the game to Overtime. Braden Pimm with a two on one couldn’t score the OT winner and shortly after Zac Rasmussen would tip a shot past Andrew Hammond sending the Silverbacks home with the Game 1 victory.

http://www.bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=678207

March 21st @ Vernon: Game 2: Vernon wins 5-1

The Vipers turned around a poor performance in Game 1 with a solid effort in a 501 victory in Game 2. Specialty teams was the difference in the 1st period with Chris Crowell & Mike Collins powerplay goals giving Vernon a 2-1 lead after 20 minutes of play. Vernon would kill off a huge two man advantage in the 2nd period wich was the turning point of tonights hockey game, as Vernon headed into the 3rd up 2-1. The Silverbacks couldn’t stay out of the penalty box as the Vipers would score three 3rd period goals on route to a 5-1 victory. Bryan Gillis took the loss making 26 saves. Andrew Hammond made 19 saves getting the win. Mike Collins, Connor Jones, Braden Pimm, & Kellen Jones all lead the Vipers scoring attack with two points each. In the dying seconds Zac Rasmussen pushed Mike Collins into Andrew Hammond wich erupted a mini line brawl as punches were throwen, as both teams tempers started to boil over. This should lead to a very entertaining Game 3 Tuesday night in Salmon Arm.

http://www.bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=678208

March 24th @ Salmon Arm: Game 3: Vernon wins 3-0

Cory Kanes 2nd period goal at 4:28 was the game winner as the Vipers defeated the Silverbacks 3-0. Andrew Hammond was the difference collecting 1st star along with 33 saves in the Vernon net. Vernons penalty kill was solid as the Backs went 0-7 with the man advantage. Salmon Arm outplayed and outworked the Vipers for most of the night but couldn’t buy a bounce falling 2-1 in the best of 7 series. Salmon Arm had many great scoring opportunities but couldn’t solve Hammond. Cole Ikkala and Connor Jones (empty net) would round out Vernons scoring in the 3rd period.

http://www.bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=678209

March 25th @ Salmon Arm: Game 4: Salmon Arm wins 3-1

Keenan Desmet with two and Max Grassi with a powerplay goal lead the scoring for the Silverbacks. Bryan Gillis made 23 saves getting the victory. Andrew Hammond made 22 saves in the loss. Braden Pimm scored the lone Viper goal. The Vipers would struggle with the man advantage going 1-8 on the powerplay. The Vipers were without Cameron Brodie who was out of the lineup. The Vipers did get some good news with the return of Kevin Kraus. Once again the Vipers were outhit for most of tonights game, as the Backs really forced the Vipers, clogging up the neutral zone and in front of the net as the Vipers shots were coming from the outside. The Vipers are going to have to get a little more emotion and intensity tonight, something that was lacking in Game 4.

http://www.bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=678212

Key Players To Watch:

Vernon:

Sahir Gill 10 pts
Kellen Jones 10 pts
Connor Jones 10 pts
Chris Crowell 9 pts
Mike Collins 8 pts
Cory Kane 8 pts
Braden Pimm 8 pts
Rob Short 7 pts
Cameron Brodie 2 pts
Andrew Hammond 6-3 Record 1.84 GAA

Salmon Arm:

Conor Morrison 14 pts
Justin Cseter 10 pts
Zac Rasmussen 7 pts
Ashford McMaster 7 pts
Keenan Desmet 7 pts
Brent Vandenberg 3 pts
Matt Grassi 4 pts
Mark Zengerle 4 pts
Bryan Gillis 6-3 Record 2.85 GAA

Vipers, SilverBacks All Square:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:


Vipers, SilverBacks all square

SALMON ARM – They have played 14 times over the last seven months and really settled very little.
They know one mistake usually results in a goal, and they know if you’re moving, you’re going to get hit. They also realize only one team is going to the B.C. Hockey League Fred Page Cup championship series next week.
While the fans are jacked about the Interior Conference final series, the players don’t want the best-of-seven series to end either.
The Salmon Arm SilverBacks iced the Vipers 3-1 Wednesday night, 24 hours after Andrew Hammond and the Vipers pitched a 3-0 shutout. The series is even at 2-2 with the fifth game tonight (7:00) at the Wesbild Centre. Game 6 goes Saturday night in the Shuswap, while a seventh game would go Tuesday night in Vernon.
The SilverBacks, whose superstar line of Mark Zengerle, Keenan Desmet and Conor Morrison had been smothered by the Vipers in the opening three games, took advantage of the absence of injured all-star blueliner Cam Brodie (foot) and busted out for two goals from Desmet.
“Through the first three games, our top two lines only had one point so we had some guys step up which is a really good thing,” said SilverBacks’ head coach Rylan Ferster.
“We certainly needed some goaltending, we got a couple of bounces and I thought our penalty kill did a good job. I thought we played desperate tonight and now it’s a best-of-three.”
Desmet scored the only first-period goal after Viper d-man Kevin Kraus hit the side of the net with a pass intended for teammate Kyle Bigos. Morrison scooped up the puck and fed Desmet on Hammond’s doorstep.
Matt Grassi made it 2-0 midway through the second period, 50 seconds into a 5-on-3 powerplay, finishing off a nice passing play with Ashford McMaster and Justin Cseter.
The two-man advantage came after Viper head coach Mark Ferner took an unsportsmanlike conduct minor for arguing with referee Andrew Guest following a too many men on the ice call.
“Obviously, with my little tirade there, didn’t help us, but at the same time, sooner or later I’ve gotta take a stand to protect this hockey team,” said Ferner, who feels the SilverBacks are taking liberties with his better players. “... The refs and the league have to protect the better players in the league, and if they don’t want to, then certainly we’re going to have to do something about. In saying that, ‘Are we going to turn the clock back 10 years as far as the BCHL, no?’ It’s pretty blatant to me what they’re trying to do out there and I don’t agree with it.”
The Vipers, whose stellar shot-blocking penalty kill units gave up just their second powerplay goal in 30 playoff attempts, mustered one goal on eight powerplay chances.
Braden Pimm was credited with the late second-period goal after he, captain Chris Crowell and Bryce Kakoske basically took batting practice in front of Salmon Arm goalie Bryan Gillis.
Desmet completed the offence five minutes into the third on a nice feed by Morrison.
“I thought our guys played hard and I felt we had enough opportunities to win the hockey game and go up 3-1, but at the very least, we got home-ice advantage back,” added Ferner.
“It was just one of those nights where it just wasn’t going to go in for us and we’ll regroup and we’ll be good on Friday.”
Desmet, who had 31 goals in the regular season, found a little more room to move before a standing-room-only crowd of 1,849.
“It was an all-around good battle with both teams coming out to play hard,” said Desmet, as he signed photographs for fans. “We had the intensity needed to win tonight and a few breaks went our way. This is great fun. Everybody wants to see us and Vernon in the final and I think the fans are enjoying it as much as we are.”
Crowell, a four-year veteran, gave the Gorillas credit for responding well after getting shut out.
“Hand it to them,” said the Williams Lake product. “They competed, we didn’t get any breaks but we’ve gotta work for those breaks and earn those breaks. I don’t think we played bad, but I don’t think it was our best effort at the same time. We’ll show up for Game 5 with a better effort. We came in and split, the same thing they did. Now, it’s a best-of-three and we have home ice. That’s what playoffs are all about.”
Crowell is also thriving on going to war against a team with just as much talent, determination and grit.
“I know I don’t like them and I’m sure they don’t like us. It is what it is. It’s playoff hockey with two bitter rivals going at. There’s some questionable hits and some non-calls and stuff, but that’s part of playoffs so guys have to learn to battle through that. We’re getting away with stuff and they’re getting away with stuff and we just have to go out and play.”
Cory Kane, who basically overpowered Gillis with a wraparound, Cole Ikkala with a high shot from the wall which fooled Gillis, and Connor Jones, with a 100-foot empty netter, accounted for Vernon’s scoring in Game 3.
Ferster knows the intensity level will be off the charts for the rest of the series.
“They’re such a good team over there and it’s starting to get a little bit feisty now. I certainly didn’t think after winning Game 1, we were going to win in four so we kind of prepared for a long series too.”
Grassi, who had an NHL scout checking him and Bigos out in Game 4, was elated to see the SilverBacks open the scoring Wednesday.
“The last two games we kind of lacked emotion so tonight we got the first goal which was the first lead we’ve had since the first game so it was good to get that lead and get the emotion going on the bench.”
Grassi is also enjoying the Disney-like ride.
“It’s just a battle every game, it’s the best rivalry in the BCHL and it’s a lot of fun to play in. This is what it’s all about. We expect the same in Vernon. Every shift’s gonna be a battle.”

Interior Conference Finals: Game 4 Salmon Arm 3 Vernon 1

Was at tonights Game 4 of the Interior Conference Finals as Salmon Arm defeated Vernon 3-1 in front of 1,849 fans at the Wesbild Centre.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon: Andrew Hammond
Salmon Arm: Bryan Gillis

1st Period: The Vipers would get some good news as Kevin Kraus returned to the lineup tonight after missing the last game. Some good back and forth action between both teams early before Keenan Desmet would beat Andrew Hammond at 3:14 after a Vipers turnover inbehind their own net. Conor Morrison & Mark Zengerle collected the assists. This goal seemed to give the Backs that extra jump as the Silverbacks were flying for most of the 1st period, Salmon Arm was skating hard, really moving the puck well. Kyle Bigos went for the check as Keenan Desmet went around Bigos in for the two on one, Desmet cut towards the goal but was stopped by Hammond, the play would come back the other way as Cory Kane & Cole Ikkala would come in two on one, Kane setup Ikkala who would go in for the breakaway but couldnt beat Bryan Gillis. Vernon would get the first powerplay of the game and struggled early before the Silverbacks would go down two men, as the Vipers now had a short two man advantage. Vernon moved the puck well getting a few chances but couldnt beat Gillis who was sharp. Salmon Arm's penalty kill played very well all night, really forcing Vernons defence at the point, and clogging up the middle as the Vipers were having troubles getting pucks towards the net. Salmon Arm would kill off both minors. The Backs played a very physical period, finishing their checks. The Vipers took a beating down low in the corners getting worked over at times. Justin Cseter had a great chance to put the Silverbacks up two goals, with Andrew Hammond down and out, Cseter missed a wide open goal, firing high and over the net. In the dying seconds of the period Salmon Arm come close to scoring getting a shot from the point with just seconds remaining but just missed the far side of the net. The Silverbacks looked like the better team up 1-0 after 20 minutes of play. Vernon outshot Salmon Arm 11-7.

2nd Period: Salmon Arm would start the 2nd on the man advantage wich was carried over from the end of the 1st. The Backs moved the puck well but couldnt hit the back of the net as the Vipers would kill off the minor. Salmon Arm looked like the hungrier team really looking good with the puck, the line of Mark Zengerle, Conor Morrison and Keenan Desmet was fyling for most of the night. The Viper defence without Cameron Brodie caused a few turnovers in their own end giving up some odd man rushes. Once again the Silverbacks were laying the body going after the Jones Twins, both Connor & Kellen took a pounding down low. Both teams didnt get many chances after a very tight checking 2nd. Salmon Arm was doing a great job at tying up the Viper sticks, not giving Vernon much room to move. In the second half of the period the Vipers would get into penalty trouble as Salmon Arm would get their first two man advantage of the night. After being caught with too many men on the ice, Connor Jones took a stick to the face, with no call on the play, Mark Ferner went nuts at the Vernon bench, after yelling towards Andrew Guest Ferner was given a penalty wich put the Vipers down two men. It didnt take long after some nice puck movement veteran Max Grassi would wire a shot past Andrew Hammond at 13:09 putting the Backs up two goals. Assists going to, Ashford McMaster & Justin Cseter. The Vipers would kill off the remainder of the second minor with some solid penalty kill. Vernon would pick up their play a little getting some chances, Rob Short with a great chance at the side of the net, but the pass through the crease hit something in front, sending the puck into the corner. The Silverbacks would get into penalty trouble as Vernon would get a late two man advantage, this their second of the night. With time ticking away on the clock, Braden Pimm would bang away at the loose puck, scoring on his own rebound at 19:27 with still time remaining on the 2nd powerplay. Chris Crowell & Bryce Kakoske picking up the assists. With a quick shot from the corner, a chance late as the Vipers were down 2-1 after 40 minutes of play. Salmon Arm outshot Vernon 8-6.

3rd Period: Vernon would start the period with 40 seconds left in the man advantage, after some sloppy play off the draw time would expire as the Backs would kill off the minor. The Vipers would get the next three powerplays but would struggle with the man advantage. Kellen Jones come so close to tying the game after hitting the post from the slot. Salmon Arm would kill off the minor. Shortly after some nice three way passing by the Silverbacks, Keenan Desmet would get his 2nd of the night beating Hammond at 4:58 regaining Salmon Arm's two goal lead. Conor Morrison would collect the lone assist. The Vipers would go back on the powerplay, give credit to the Backs penalty kill who were in the Vipers faces all night, really forcing the pass this causing turnovers at the line. Salmon Arm would do a great job at clogging up the middle, collapsing down low as the Vipers shooting lanes were closed, as most of the shots were from the outside wich had troubles getting through the traffic of bodies in front. Vernon would get just a single shot on all three powerplays as the Silverbacks penalty kill looked very strong killing off all three minors. Both teams carried the play at times in the second half but once again not many scoring chances as both teams were held to limited chances with not many shots in the final two periods. Rob Short & Cory Kane on the two on one, Short fed Kane who missed the net after releasing a wicked wrist shot from the slot. Vernon did have the better of the play in the second half but couldnt get pucks through the strong defensive play from the Backs. The Vipers would get just two shots on goal in the 2nd half of the 3rd. Mark Zengerle with a shot from the slot but was stopped by Hammond. Mark Ferner would call a timeout in the final two minutes of the hockey game, with 1:47 remaining Andrew Hammond would head to the bench for the extra man but the Vipers couldnt seem to sustain any offence in the Backs zone, Salmon Arm did a great job at not giving the Vipers any room to move out their tonight. In the dying seconds Rob Short & Zac Rasmussen were tangled up along the side boards with a linesmen as both players were trying to get at one another. The Vipers had the better of the play in the 3rd but fell to Salmon Arm 3-1 as the Silverbacks tied the series 2-2 with Game 5 in Vernon Friday night. The Vipers outshot the Silverbacks 7-6.

Top Players: (Vernon)

Connor & Kellen Jones played well taking yet another pounding getting checked hard all night. Both Twins worked extremely hard, playing physical themselves, skating hard, creating chances down low. Both kids played well defensively.

Cory Kane played well for the 2nd straight night. Kane who is a very good skater and puck handler looked dangerous with the puck several times. Kane setup Cole Ikkala on a two on one in the 1st and then had a great chance in the 3rd on a two on one but missed the net.

Andrew Hammond couldnt be faulted on any of the Backs three goals. Hammond played well between the pipes.

Top Players: (Salmon Arm)

Bryan Gillis (23 saves) Played well giving up just the lone powerplay goal. I thought Gillis was having troubles with his rebounds in the 1st and 2nd periods but settled down in the 3rd.

Matt Grassi (1 goal) Played well on the blueline, laid out a few big checks.

The line of Keenan Desmet (2 goals), Conor Morrison (2 assists) and Mark Zengerle all played extremely well. This line has burned the Vipers all regular season and did once again tonight. Desmet was really flying all night, skating hard, looked very good with and without the puck. Played physical as well. Conor Morrison had a few good chances in close, was another player who looked good with the puck.

Matt Wray looked good in the 1st period with some big checks, got off a few good quality shots. Had a few good energy shifts.

Game Thoughts: (Vernon)

The first goal of the game was going to be huge, giving up that first goal just minutes into the game wasnt what the Vipers wanted. The Vipers didnt seem to have their legs going for most of the night, without Cameron Brodie and Steven Weinstein seeing very limited icetime, the Vipers defence looked very tired as the game went on. Vernon has to be better with the man advantage, going 1-8 isnt going to win you hockey games, they need to make the Silverbacks pay for taking that many undisaplined penalties. Vernon really struggled on the powerplay, need more shots on goal. Kory Roy, Cole Ikkala and a few others saw limited icetime, the Vipers were basically rolling two and a half lines for most of the game, Mark Ferner tried mixing up a few of the lines to get things going, but it didnt seem to work. The Vipers with no puck luck, couldnt seem to get a bounce all night. Vernon still needs to step up the physical play.

Game Thoughts: (Salmon Arm)

You could say tonight was a must win for the Silverbacks, Salmon Arm didnt want to go down 3-1 heading to Vernon for Game 5. The Vipers knew the Backs were going to empty the tanks and they did, playing their best game of the series. Salmon Arm had good jump, skating hard, really moving the puck with a good transition game. Give full credit to the Backs for playing a solid 60 minutes, the defence did a great job at tying up the Viper sticks, really forcing the play, playing very aggresive on the penalty kill and five on five. The Backs almost carbon copied the play from the Vipers last night, clogging up the middle, forcing shots from the outside. Silverbacks penalty kill looked very solid killing off eight of nine minors. Another very physical game, Salmon Arm has done a great job at checking the Vipers top line of Sahir Gill and the Jones Twins. This line has taken a beating, really wearing them down each game. A much nosier crowd tonight at the Sunwave Centre, great to see! Overall a very tight checking game, with not as many scoring chances and shots like past games in this series. Now its a best out of three games with Vernon holding home ice advantage. You knew this was going to be a very tight series as Game 5 is going to be huge for both teams.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Cameron Brodie (Injured)
Nick Amies
Ryan Santana (Injured)
Trent Dorias (AP)

Salmon Arm:

Mike Puddifant
Levi Hantula
Travis Briard
Bobby Lepsett

3 Stars:

1st Star: Bryan Gillis (23 saves)
2nd Star: Keenan Desmet (2 goals)
3rd Star: Connor Jones

Interior Conference Finals: Game 4 Vernon @ Salmon Arm: (Game Preview)

Vernon (6-2) @ Salmon Arm (5-3)

You can say tonights Game 4 is a must win for the Salmon Arm Silverbacks. Salmon Arm dosnt want to head back to Vernon for Game 5 down 3-1. The Silverbacks are going to have to try and solve Andrew Hammond who shutout the Backs last night 3-0 in Game 3. The Backs are going to need the same full 60 minute effort like last night, tonight if they want to defeat Vernon. Once again playing physical, taking the body against the Vipers is key, and keep an eye on the Vipers top line of Gill and the Jones Twins. Salmon Arm is going to have to take advantage of specialty teams if they want to win, going 0-7 last night really hurt them. The Vipers are going to have to come out ready to face a tough Silverbacks squad who is going to be ready to battle. Vernon is going to have to play a much better game with efforts at both ends of the rink. Vernons defence was very solid last night but the offence had troubles generating offence all night. The Vipers need to take the body against the Backs and get pucks in deep, Vernon is a much better and strong hockey club when playing with that aggressive forecheck. You can listen to tonights broadcast on 107.5 Kiss FM with Todd Miller, starting at 7:15pm

Heres a look at the series:

March 20th @ Vernon: Game 1: Salmon Arm wins 3-2 Overtime

The Silverbacks took it to the Vipers early and often but were down 1-0 after the 1st period outshooting the Vipers 10-3. Salmon Arm outplayed, outhit and outchanced the Vipers in the 2nd period but could only muster one goal, a later goal by Bobby Lipsett as the Backs could have easily been up 4-1. With the score tied 1-1 heading into the 3rd this was anyones game. Vernon finally started to get their legs going, playing their best hockey of the game as both teams had some good chances. Chris Crowell would score his 2nd of the night at 16:14 as the Vipers jumped ahead but hold on, the Backs didn’t fold the tents, superpest Zac Rasmussen would tie the game under 40 seconds later sending the game to Overtime. Braden Pimm with a two on one couldn’t score the OT winner and shortly after Zac Rasmussen would tip a shot past Andrew Hammond sending the Silverbacks home with the Game 1 victory.

http://www.bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=678207

March 21st @ Vernon: Game 2: Vernon wins 5-1

The Vipers turned around a poor performance in Game 1 with a solid effort in a 501 victory in Game 2. Specialty teams was the difference in the 1st period with Chris Crowell & Mike Collins powerplay goals giving Vernon a 2-1 lead after 20 minutes of play. Vernon would kill off a huge two man advantage in the 2nd period wich was the turning point of tonights hockey game, as Vernon headed into the 3rd up 2-1. The Silverbacks couldn’t stay out of the penalty box as the Vipers would score three 3rd period goals on route to a 5-1 victory. Bryan Gillis took the loss making 26 saves. Andrew Hammond made 19 saves getting the win. Mike Collins, Connor Jones, Braden Pimm, & Kellen Jones all lead the Vipers scoring attack with two points each. In the dying seconds Zac Rasmussen pushed Mike Collins into Andrew Hammond wich erupted a mini line brawl as punches were throwen, as both teams tempers started to boil over. This should lead to a very entertaining Game 3 Tuesday night in Salmon Arm.

http://www.bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=678208

March 24th @ Salmon Arm: Game 3: Vernon wins 3-0

Cory Kanes 2nd period goal at 4:28 was the game winner as the Vipers defeated the Silverbacks 3-0. Andrew Hammond was the difference collecting 1st star along with 33 saves in the Vernon net. Vernons penalty kill was solid as the Backs went 0-7 with the man advantage. Salmon Arm outplayed and outworked the Vipers for most of the night but couldn’t buy a bounce falling 2-1 in the best of 7 series. Salmon Arm had many great scoring opportunities but couldn’t solve Hammond. Cole Ikkala and Connor Jones (empty net) would round out Vernons scoring in the 3rd period.

http://www.bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=678209

Key Players To Watch:

Vernon:

Sahir Gill 10 pts
Kellen Jones 11 pts
Connor Jones 9 pts
Chris Crowell 8 pts
Mike Collins 8 pts
Cory Kane 8 pts
Braden Pimm 7 pts
Rob Short 6 pts
Cameron Brodie 2 pts
Andrew Hammond 6-2 Record 1.70 GAA

Salmon Arm:

Conor Morrison 12 pts
Justin Cseter 9 pts
Zac Rasmussen 7 pts
Ashford McMaster 6 pts
Keenan Desmet 5 pts
Brent Vandenberg 3 pts
Matt Grassi 3 pts
Mark Zengerle 3 pts
Bryan Gillis 5-3 Record 3.08 GAA

Vipers Take Series Lead:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers take series lead

By Kevin Mitchell
Sports Editor

If he can't see a shot, his teammates are there for a clutch block. He's making himself look big, rarely giving up a rebound, and his goals against average is an all-planet 1.70.
Andrew Hammond – the Interior Conference's Top Goalie award winner – has somehow cranked up his play another decibel. He pitched a superb 29-save shutout Tuesday night in Salmon Arm as the Vernon Vipers won 3-0, grabbing a 2-1 lead in the B.C. Hockey League best-of-seven semifinal series.
"I felt real good tonight. I didn't feel too good in Game 2 when I didn't get too many shots, but tonight I felt everytime I made a mistake, my d-men were there to clear the puck," said Hammond, a 21-year-old White Rock product. "That's always nice when you have that confidence in them. We played really well tonight as a team."
Hammond and the Vipers' penalty killing units tortured the SilverBacks' powerplay eight times in front of 1,746 fans at the Sunwave Centre. Hammond's only error came late in the game when he flicked a puck over the side glass, earning a delay-of-game penalty.
The SilverBacks pulled goalie Bryan Gillis for a sixth attacker, and even enjoyed a 6-on-3 advantage for about 20 seconds when defenceman Cam Brodie lost his stick. Hammond made a few solid stops as the Gorillas stormed the net. The Vipers have now killed all but one of 26 playoff powerplay chances. Hammond's save percentage is an extraordinary 93.9 per cent.
"He was great," said Vernon head coach Mark Ferner. "He's playing with lots of confidence. He's positionally sound and he makes it look easy out there. Lots of pucks are hitting him, but he was in the right place and he deserved to be first star tonight."
Centre Cory Kane, who Ferner felt played his finest game of the season, scored the winner at 4:25 of the second period when he bascially overpowered Gillis with a wrap-a-round after some grunt work behind the net by Bryce Kakoske and James Kerr.
Winger Cole Ikkala surprised Gillis with a high shot from the right side to make it 2-0 midway through the second period.
"You get pucks to the net and you never know," said Ferner. "He was walking up the wall and looking for someone down the slot. We talk about not turning pucks over there. If it's not on net, it's got to be behind the goal-line. But Cole's got a great shot and he just turned and fired it and it probably caught him a little by surprise."
Hammond, a charter member of the all-star goaltending fraternity, felt somewhat sorry for Gillis, who finished with 26 saves, his best a right-leg stop off centre Connor Jones from 'gimme range.'
"I don't think he saw it," said Hammond. "It's one of those things when you shoot from anywhere, eventually they're going go go in. I mean, off the crossbar, it's a bit lucky but we'll take it."
Jones, who survived a monster mugging by big Matt Wray, connected on a 100-foot empty-netter to complete the offence with 35 seconds remaining.
Due to injuries to forward Ryan Santana and blueliner Kevin Kraus, the Vipers moved Kory Roy and Stevie Weinstein into the lineup. Roy took a regular shift, while Weinstein manned the point on all three Vernon powerplays.
Ferner wasn't about to book hotel rooms in Powell River or Victoria after the Snakes' impressive performance.
"Certainly we were lucky in some situations. Our guys played hard again tonight and all we've done now is re-gain home advantage."
Game 4 goes tonight at 7:30 in Salmon Arm. The fifth game is Friday night (7:00) at the Wesbild Centre.

Snakes Pull Even With ‘Backs:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Snakes pull even with ‘Backs

It’s a slogan veteran centre Connor Jones says the Vernon Vipers feel best represents what they are all about.
“23 beats...one heart.” They wear T-shirts with the phrase. They have it posted on Facebook for the whole planet to view.
And the team-first attitude and amped-up pulse was surely on display Saturday night as the Vipers smothered the Salmon Arm SilverBacks 5-1 in B.C. Hockey League playoff action before 2,454 fans at Wesbild Centre.
The best-of-seven Interior Conference championship series resumed Tuesday night at the Sunwave Centre even at 1-1, with Game 4 back there tonight. The fifth game goes Friday night in Vernon.
The Viper coaches asked the Vipers to clog up the neutral zone and forecheck better than they did in the Game 1 loss. They asked for straight-line, third-effort hockey, and their wishes were granted.
Captain Chris Crowell and Mike Collins fired powerplay goals 2:10 apart midway through the first period before Keenan Desmet replied for the Gorillas two minutes after Collins’ goal. After that, it was pretty much all Snakes.
The second period was scoreless, but the Vipers did put on a free penalty killing clinic, bailing out d-man Kyle Bigos, who took a double minor 18 seconds after Ryan Santana took a tripping penalty. Jones and d-men Cameron Brodie and Mike Leidl did a fabulous job killing 91 seconds of a 5-on-3 as the SilverBacks hemmed in the Snakes.
“The key kill there 5-on-3 certainly gave our guys a boost,” said Viper head coach Mark Ferner. “I’m not sure how many shots we blocked, but they sure sacrificed their body for the better of the team and that’s what we need. That’s playoff hockey and they should be proud of their efforts. It was a real gutsy effort by our guys.”
Ferner fully expected to see a better performance after the Vipers were badly outshot in the series opener.
“They like each other, they like being around each other, they like playing for each other,” said Ferner. “Every once in a while, that message has to get sent again and let them know why we’re actually here. We know it’s not going to be easy. They’re a very good hockey team over there, but we also knew that this was a big game for us and we had 20 guys determined for one common goal and that was trying to get a victory tonight.”
Jones, who scored a pair of gorgeous goals six minutes apart in the third period off identical two-on-one feeds by his twin, Kellen, rated first star ahead of Collins and Braden Pimm (also a clutch penalty killer who drew assists on the first two goals).
“This game was a big confidence booster,” said Connor, who like his brother, was bodied hard but bounced up like he had been struck by a SmartCar.
“Yesterday, we were a little bit nervous. I don’t know what it was, it wasn’t our team and tonight, all the guys were playing well.”
On his penalty kill assignments, Connor added: “Pimmer went out there and he blocked many shots and I saw it so I went out there to block as many shots as I could. Our best penalty killer was Hammy (goalie Andrew Hammond). He made some unreal saves. Hammy got the job done.”
James Kerr, who took injured Rob Short’s spot on a line with Cory Kane and Bryce Kakoske, supplied the other Viper goal, diving to punch in a loose puck in front of SilverBack goalie Bryan Gillis, making it 3-1 Vernon early in the third.
SilverBack veteran winger Colin Lidster wasn’t going to lose sleep over the loss.
“We gotta take it in stride I guess. We weren’t really happy with our effort we put forth tonight, but we have to look past it; tomorrow’s a new day.”
Lidster, the son of former NHLer Doug Lidster, felt the Gorillas had to be more disciplined back on home ice. Vernon went 3-for-9 on the powerplay Saturday.
“It’s tough when it’s a game like that. We have a fast-skating team and it’s tough to get the forecheck going. You kind of take what you can from it, but I think part of it was on our part. I don’t necessarily agree with all the calls, but part of that was us so we have to be accountable for that for sure.”
The Kamloops product felt the scrum at the buzzer, after Zac Rasmussen chased Collins, who had ragged the puck out of the SilverBack zone with a few seconds remaining, will only heat up the rivarly.
“Get the fans going I guess. It’s playoff hockey, right? We’re supposed to hate each other so it’s good.”
Lidster said the SilverBacks will maintain their close coverage of the Jones duo.
“The Jonesies are both really skilled players. They’re very noticeable and I think that’s why they got those scholarships to Quinnipiac. They’re both very dangerous when they’re out there so we have to watch out for them.”
SilverBack head coach Rylan Ferster was somewhat disappointed his team couldn’t snag a series lead, but admitted the Vipers were the better club.
“They’re a team that played pretty desperate tonight. They certainly don’t want to go down two-oh and I think you seen it in their play. It was probably exactly like they designed it. We took some very undisciplined penalties and they capitalized. Full marks to them. They were a good team tonight and I thought we had some passengers tonight.”

SNAKE BITES: Short, who banged up his knee in Game 1, was expected to play Tuesday...Santana blew out his shoulder in a collision with Gillis, and will be sidelined indefinitely...A sixth game, if necessary, would go Saturday in Salmon Arm. A Game 7 would be played Tuesday night in Vernon.

Interior Conference Finals: Game 3 Vernon 3 Salmon Arm 0

Was at tonights Game 3 of the Interior Conference Finals as Vernon defeated Salmon Arm 3-0 in front of 1,746 fans at the Sunwave Centre.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon: Andrew Hammond
Salmon Arm: Bryan Gillis

1st Period: Off the opening draw Vernon dumped the play in deep, a funny bounce off the end boards wich the puck come back out front, luckly for Bryan Gillis the Silverbacks picked up the loose puck and come close to scoring at the other end of the rink, with a quick shot from the circle that just missed the far corner. The Backs would get the first powerplay of the night just minutes into the game and then while on the PP Vernon would go down two men, as the Silverbacks jumped on an early two man advantage. Braden Pimm tried taking the feet from under one Silverback player and then got away with punching another Back in the face. Justin Cseter & Brent Vandenberg went in two on one as Cseter made a nice pass through the crease as Vandenberg just missed the net. The Vipers penalty kill was very sharp keeping the Silverbacks to the outside, blocking shots and not giving the Silverbacks much room to generate an offensive attack. Some big shot blocking by Connor Jones, Chris Crowell and Rob Short. The Vipers would only give up one lone shot while on the penlty kill, killing off both minors. Shortly after Cory Kane with a nice move cut towards the net, dishing off to Sahir Gill who was robbed in front by Bryan Gillis. A fast paced period with both teams skating well showing lots of jump as the play went back and forth with some very entertaining action. Brent Vandenberg with his second chance of the period was stopped by Andrew Hammond. Bryan Gillis made a huge glove save on a Viper with a shot from the point. Vernon was without veteran Cameron brodie for half of the period as Brodie left the ice and was in the Vipers dressing room for a good part of the first half of the period before returning to the bench. It looked like Cameron was having skate problems. The Vipers would then get their first powerplay chance as Salmon Arm would go down two men, as Vernon now with a two man advantage. Vernon would struggle with the man advantage, as the Backs would kill off the two man advantage. Connor Jones & Sahir Gill with a two on one, Gill just missed the net after the pass from Jones. Late in the 1st Matt Wray checked Cameron Brodie from behind, as Brodie got up then dropping his gloves going after Wray. Wray and the Silverbacks were lucky as Wray was called for interference. A very entertaining period with both teams getting some good quality chances. It was scoreless after 20 minutes of play. Vernon outshot Salmon Arm 12-5.

2nd Period: Early into the 2nd period Matt Wray laid out a huge elbow on Connor Jones in the neutral zone, Jones went down and had troubles getting back up on his feet as the teams trainer and players had to help Jones off the ice. Connor would head to the Vipers dressing room for several minutes before returning to the bench. Jones would see a few short shifts before heading back to the dressing room and then back to the bench. For most of the period Connor was in and out of the lineup, being seen walking back and forth in the walkway between the Vipers bench and dressing room. With the Vipers already down with injuries to Kevin Kraus and Ryan Santana Mark Ferner now had to juggle his lines once again for most of the 2nd. Cory Kane would open the scoring at 4:25 after beating Bryan Gillis on a wrap around. Bryce Kakoske with the lone assist. As the period went on Salmon Arm really turned up the play, outworking, outhitting and outplaying the Vipers for most of the period. In the second half of the period it looked as if the Silverbacks were on a powerplay as the Backs really controlled the play deep in the Vernon zone. Max Grassi with a blast from the point while on the powerplay was stopped by Hammond. Andrew Hammond was the difference coming up with some huge saves keeping the Vipers in tonights game. Justin Cseter was robbed at the side of the net by Andrew Hammond who come across the crease to make the big pad save. Mark Zengerle then wired a shot from the top of the circle, the puck just whistled high and wide of the top corner, Zenergle even thought he had hit the net after celebrating just a tad too early. Other then the Kane goal the Vipers couldnt generate any kind of offence attack, as most of the play was held in the Vernon end of the rink. Give the Vipers defence credit, they did a great job at blocking alot of the Silverback shots from the point, keeping the Backs to the outside and then letting Andrew Hammond to make any of the saves from down low or in close. Even though Salmon Arm carried the better of the play, Vernon did a good job at not giving up a single shot for a good seven to eight minutes. Salmon Arm come very close to tying the game, Ashford McMaster with a shot from the point got through traffic but somehow couldnt find its way to the back of the net, with the puck laying in the crease and a mad scramble in front of Hammond the Backs still couldnt put the puck past Hammond. Salmon Arm outplayed Vernon but were down 1-0 after 20 minutes of play. The Vipers outshot the Silverbacks 11-10.

3rd Period: Almost a complete copy of the 2nd period took place for most of the 3rd period. Once again it looked like a Silverbacks powerplay as the Backs held the edge in play deep in the Vipers zone but it was five on five. The Vipers offence couldnt get anything going as the Silverbacks poured on the presure. Once again Vernons defence played a strong game, keeping the Backs to the outside, clogging up the middle. Two minutes into the final period off the draw Travis Briard rang a hard shot off the far post wich would have tied the game. Salmon Arm with two powerplays and still no goals after some good presure but the strong penalty kill and goaltending by Andrew Hammond was a huge difference in tonights game. Vernon would kill off both minors. Jason Beatie had a great chance in front but was stoned by Hammond who looked very focused. Any chance the Vipers offence took over, they were having all kinds of troubles getting through the neutral zone, turning over the puck. Just before the midway mark Cole Ikkala at 9:28 with a long screened shot from way out somehow beat Bryan Gillis upstairs putting Vernon up 2-0. This was just the Vipers 2nd shot of the period. The Vipers then seemed to get a little confidence and now were just hitting centre and getting the puck in deep, trying to wind the clock down. Steven Weinstein didnt see a shift come the 3rd period, seeing very limited icetime. Mark Ferner was taking Kory Roy out of the draw, switching him up with Braden Pimm, then Roy would change with Pimm as the game went on. Connor Jones took a beating tonight, and for the second time tonight took a big elbow from Captain Matt Walters, Walters and Jones then had words on the way back up ice. On the other side Chris Crowell got away with a big elbow along the side boards. Late in the game Andrew Hammond would get caught firing the puck over the side glass giving the Silverbacks a late powerplay with just over two minutes remaining. Bryan Gillis would head to the bench for the extra attacker, with the Backs on the powerplay Captain Chris Crowell just missed the empty net with a long shot from his own end. On the next shift Connor Jones would hit the empty net at 18:25 from his own end scoring shorthanded and giving the Vipers the 3-0 lead. Andrew Hammond with the lone assist. Some pushing and shoving in front of Andrew Hammond in the final few seconds as the Vipers would pick up the 3-0 victory, now taking a 2-1 series lead and regaining home ice advantage. Salmon Arm outshot Vernon 16-7.

Top Players: (Vernon)

James Kerr played well at times. Kerr played well on the PK.

Connor Jones (1 goal) took two big elbows from Matt Walters and Matt Wray but battled hard, showing alot of character by staying in tonights game. Connor played very well down low, was in the face of many Backs players, played physical taking and dishing out some checks.

Cory Kane (1 goal) Played very well through out tonights game. Kane was skating well, really handling the puck well, dangling through the Backs zone. Kane was very good on the draw and played well at both ends of the rink.

Chris Crowell played another physical game, was a presence on the ice.

Adam Thompson played very well on the Vernon blueline.

Andrew Hammond (33 saves) Picked up his first shutout of the BCHL Playoffs. Hammond was by far the difference in tonights game. Looked very focused, played with lots of confidence, staying calm and had control on all rebounds and 2nd chances in close.

Top Players: (Salmon Arm)

Bryan Gillis played very well, making some big saves on a few good Viper scoring chances. Robbed Sahir Gill twice, and made a big glove save in the 1st period.

Ashford McMaster looked very good on the Silverbacks blueline. McMaster see's alot of icetime, very steady d-man.

Justin Cseter played one heck of a game. Cseter saw a ton of icetime and looked very dangerous up front. Was robbed twice by Andrew Hammond. Had some good quality scoring chances.

Jason Beatie played well defensivly.

Brent Vandenberg had two great scoring chances early in the 1st period. Was skating well, looked dangerous in front of the net.

Game Thoughts: (Vernon)

The Vipers were lucky and hung on for the 3-0 victory. A very nerve racking game to watch if your a Vipers fan. Both teams looked very good in a very entertaining 1st period but Salmon Arm really turned up the play in the 2nd and 3rd periods. In both the final two periods it looked as if the Vipers were on the penalty kill as most of the play was held in the Vernon zone. The Vipers were basically sitting back on a one goal lead, trying to hang on. Andrew Hammond & the Vipers penalty kill was the difference. Hammond looked very good especially in the 2nd period making many big saves. The Viper penalty kill was huge, coming up with some big shot blocks and really clogged up the middle, keeping the Silverbacks to the outside. At times Vernons defence didnt give up a single shot for a solid three to four minutes all while being pinned in their own end. The Vipers really missed Ryan Santana on the faceoffs. This could have been anybodys game. You have to now wonder what if the Vipers could have hung on to the 2-1 lead in the final two and a half minutes of Game 1, this could be a 3-0 series lead with a chance at ending the Backs season tomorrow night.

Game Thoughts: (Salmon Arm)

Salmon Arm played very well, really moved the puck well, generated alot of offence and quality scoring chances but ran into a hot goaltender and didnt get the lucky bounces. On several chances with the puck loose in or around a open net, the Silverbacks just couldnt seem to get the bounce they needed. 0-7 on the powerplay hurts, also Briards shot off the far post could have tied the game just two minutes into the 3rd. Rylan Ferster was matching lines for most of the night, until changing up his lines midway through the 3rd, trying to give the team a spark. The Silverbacks once again played physical atleast in the first two periods, they battled hard, won most of the battles and races to the puck but couldnt find the back of the net. Late in the 3rd it looked as if Salmon Arm was getting frustrated at times, after getting some great scoring chances. Salmon Arm with a must win in Game 4 tomorrow night.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Kevin Kraus (Injured)
Ryan Santana (Injured)
Nick Amies
Trent Dorias (AP)

Salmon Arm:

Mike Puddifant
Levi Hantula
Christoper Hoe

3 Stars:

1st Star: Andrew Hammond (33 saves)
2nd Star: Cory Kane (1 goal)
3rd Star: Justin Cseter