Broncos Sign Former Viper Forward Caton:

The Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) Humboldt Broncos
have signed former Vernon Vipers forward Blaine Caton.

Caton played last season with the Vipers before being released on September 9th 2015. Caton attended the Vipers Training Camp, played in a few exhibition games was released before the start of the regular season. Caton joined the KIJHL North Okanagan Knights before signing with the Broncos. In 48 games with the Vipers last season Caton picked up (4-goals-4-assists-8-points). Caton has one assist in four games with the Broncos this season. Caton's dad Murray played three seasons (1989-1992) with the Vernon Lakers.

Blaine Caton's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=247558

This was in the Morning Star Newspaper:

Nov 4, 2015

Morning Star Staff

forward Blaine Caton has left the Knights to join the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League’s Humboldt Broncos.

Caton, from Vernon, appeared in eight games with the Knights this season, picking up two goals and four points.

He was a late cut of the BCHL Vernon Vipers.

BCHL Card Deadline Approaching:

The BCHL card deadline is Tuesday, December 1st 2015.

This is posted on Brian Wiebe's BCHL Blog:

BCHL December 1st Roster Deadline:

Monday, November 30, 2015

The December 1st Hockey Canada roster deadline arrives tomorrow and it's one that's seen BCHL teams be relatively busy.

BCHL teams started with 35 cards on June 1st, on October 1st that was reduced to 30. At that point, teams with 22 players signed were left with only eight cards to sign any players acquired.

As of December 1st, the number is cut to 25 cards or less, which includes carded players plus available unused cards. The norm is for teams to end up with a 22 player roster and 3 cards, but occasionally teams will go with less than 22 players and then have more cards available for use leading up to the January 10th roster deadline.

For example, if a team has 28 cards remaining of the 35 they started with on June 1st, (including the 22 players on their roster) and it reduces to 25 tomorrow night, it makes sense to trade now, rather than after December 1st. The idea being that the team uses cards 23 through 28 instead of losing them. This is assuming the team wants to make some changes.

Silverbacks Power Past Vipers:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Silverbacks power past Vipers 5-1
                       
Nov 29, 2015

Morning Star Staff

The Salmon Arm Silverbacks own the fifth-best power play in the B.C. Hockey League.

They used the Vernon Vipers to bolster their special teams stats in a 5-1 victory before 1,270 fans at the Shaw Centre.

Salmon Arm (17-6-2-1) scored five times in the opening 20 minutes, three with the man advantage, outshooting the Vipers 24-11 and winning almost all the loose pucks.

“As a whole, we were flat in the first period and good in the second and third,” said Viper head coach Mark Ferner. “We had no compete, we were passive and we were gliding in the first period. We were watching video this morning (Saturday) and I can’t put my finger on our inconsistency period to period or game to game. I don’t know if they aren’t sure how to win or if they’re afraid to fail.”

The same two teams meet tonight (6:00) at Kal Tire Place.

Ross Heidt opened the scoring with his 18th of the season at 2:38. The Vipers (13-14-0-2) equalized at 5:03 on Christian Cakebread’s sixth on the power play.

Chase Zieky’s 11th increased the Gorillas’ lead to 2-1 at 9:16 on the power play with Brett Stapley penalized for hooking.

Heidt made it 3-1 a minute later and Josh Laframboise’s converted his eighth, on another powerplay, seven minutes later, with Mitchell Oliver off for hooking.

Carson Bolduc made it 5-1 with 36 seconds left in the first with Odeen Tufto off for goaltender interference.

“They were all stupid penalties that could have been prevented,” said Ferner.

The Silverbacks outshot Vernon 43-28 with Angus Redmond in net. Brendan Barry was solid in the loss.

The Vipers visit the Coquitlam Express Wednesday night and meet the Vees Friday night in Penticton before entertaining the Cowichan Valley Capitals Saturday night.

The Merritt Centennials upset the host Langley Rivermen 2-1, while the Trail Smoke Eaters surprised the visiting Wenatchee Wild 4-2 and the West Kelowna Warriors upended the hometown Surrey Eagles 6-4.

In the KIJHL, the Osoyoos Coyotes got a third-period goal from Hunter Johnson to shade the North Okanagan Knights 1-0 at the Nor-Val Sports Centre in Armstrong.

Salmon Arm 4 Vernon 3

For anyone who could not attend or watch tonight’s Vipers game here are my thoughts and views from tonight’s game. You may agree or disagree but we all have our own view and opinion on any game we watch. This is my opinion and my thoughts on how I saw tonight’s game. I try to be unbiased and give a fare recap on both sides. Thanks for stopping by & visiting my blog.

I was at tonight's Vipers-Silverbacks game as Salmon Arm defeated Vernon 4-3 in front of 2,017 fans at Kal Tire Place.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon: Andrew Shortridge
Salmon Arm: Angus Redmond

1st Period: The Vipers would get an early powerplay just twenty four seconds off the opening faceoff. Vernon with good pressure on the man advantage would get lots of pucks to the net, Callum Volpe with two quick shots from the blueline forced Angus Redmond into making two good saves. The Vipers unable to capitalize as SA would kill off the minor. The Vipers had lots of jump and energy early were keeping pace with the Backs, were up in shots 8-5 as both teams looked fairly even early before the Silverbacks would open the scoring. Josh Blanchard gave Salmon Arm a 1-0 lead at 5:06 Phil Middleton & Colton Thibault collected the assists. SA seemed to gain momentum after the goal and slowly took over the edge in play. Salmon Arm controlling the play, moved the puck well, had several good looks at the net, were firing lots of rubber towards Shortridge.Just before the midway mark Kodi Schwarz with a quick shot from the point was redircted in front by Taro Hirose forcing Andrew Shortridge into making a nice save. Mac Ferner would take a hit along the end wall, slowly make his way to the Vipers bench with a bit of a limp. Ferner would get looked at by the trainer before making his way to the dressing room and didnt return. The Silverbacks would get their first look with the man advantage at the halfway mark, with a steady PP the Backs moved the puck around, had some good looks down low, couldnt find the back of the net as Vernon would kill off the minor.  As now the Silverbacks rallied in the shot department were outshooting the Vipers 16-8 at this point. The Vipers couldnt get anything going, had problems getting through the neutral zone. With six and a half minutes remaining Jimmy Lambert setup Odeen Tufto on a Vernon odd man rush, Tufto unable to get a clear shot off was stopped by Angus Redmond. I think if Tufto connected on Lambert's pass this puck was in the back of the net. Vernon responded with a few solid shifts of their own in the final minutes. It was 1-0 Salmon Arm after 20 minutes of play. The Vipers with a good start, got an early powerplay, had some good pressure and good opportunities couldnt open the scoring. The Backs would open the scoring and carry most of the play for the remainder of the period. The Silverbacks threw alot of rubber towards Andrew Shortridge, while Vernon had troubles getting through the neutral zone, did manage to come back and play a little better in the final few minutes. Salmon Arm outshot Vernon 21-12.

2nd Period: Off the opening faceoff Marcus Mitchell with a quick shot from the circle may have handcuffed Vipers starting goaltender Andrew Shortridge who just got a peice of Mitchell's shot with his glove as the puck went over the top of the net. Both teams went back and fourth as the play was fairly even early but like last night both teams didnt generate alot of chances. Both teams played fairly well defensively not giving up alot of time or space. Ross Heidt with a wrap around through the puck out front setup Taro Hirose who beat Shortridge giving Salmon Arm a 2-0 lead at 9:46 on a nice setup by Heidt. Heidt would get the lone assist. A few minutes later the Vipers would get their second PP of the night and capitalize. Odeen Tufto from the slot beat Silverbacks starting goaltender Angus Redmond cutting the Backs lead to 2-1 at 14:17 Latrell Charleson and Callum Volpe with the helpers. Off the following faceoff the Vipers would get into penalty trouble and it would cost them. Within seconds the Silverbacks would get a lengthy five on three. SA moving the puck around, didnt get alot of shots before Carson Buldoc wired a shot off the crossbar. Salmon Arm with a ton of pressure would capitalize. Chase Zieky at the side of the net gave Salmon Arm a 3-1 lead at 15:46 Josh Laframboise & Kodi Schwarz picked up the assists. Still on the man advantage Vernon would get into more penalty trouble taking another penalty, giving SA another five on three powerplay and again the Backs would capitalize. Damian Chrcek with a rocket from the blueline found the back of the net giving Salmon Arm a 4-1 lead at 16:48 Josh Blanchard & Cameron Trott picked up the helpers. As the crowd at Kal Tire Place was letting the officials know, what they thought about the penalties. Mark Ferner and the Vipers bench was also upset, complaining to the referee's on several occasions. With the Silverbacks still on the PP Salmon Arm would take a penalty evening up the play, giving the Vipers a late powerplay. Just before the powerplay expired Vernon would get a short two man advantage of their own. It was 4-1 Salmon Arm after 40 minutes of play. The Vipers played a much better period and held their own in the first half, Vernon didnt get many opportunties but neither did the Silverbacks as the play was fairly even. A very physical period as the Vipers picked up the physical play, were really throwing their weight around but then the Backs responded with some heavy hits of their own, as it looked as if the game may get ugly. A big goal by Taro Hirose gave SA a 2-0 lead before Odeen Tufto gets the Vipers on the board, getting the Vipers back in the game.  But then the Vipers get into penalty trouble and here is the TSN turning point. Salmon Arm with two back to back powerplay goals take a 4-1 lead heading into the 3rd after a penalty filled second half of the period. Vernon outshot Salmon Arm 16-11.

3rd Period: Vernon starts the final frame on the man advantage that was carried over from the 2nd period. Odeen Tufto wired a hard shot from the slot, that beat Angus Redmond but went off the crossbar even though the goal light went on, Callum Volpe jumps on the rebound but couldnt beat the Backs goaltender on the second opportunity. Redmond come across the blue paint to rob Volpe on a huge save keeping this a 4-1 game. On the following shift, still on the powerplay the Vipers work the puck around before Latrell Charleson wires a rocket from the blueline beat Redmond but went off the post as Vernon with back to back posts within seconds. The Vipers come very close to making things interesting. Salmon Arm would kill off the minor before the Silverbacks would get into penalty trouble just after killing off the minor. Vernon would get a two man advantage but it was the Backs who would get the better opportunity Taro Hirose setup Ross Heidt on a Silverbacks two on one shorthanded rush couldnt beat Andrew Shortridge who come up with a big save on the penalty kill. The Vipers would respond with a good push back and capitalize on the second powerplay. Callum Volpe's blast from the point found it's way to the back of the net cutting the SA lead to 4-2 at 4:50 Latrell Charleson with the lone helper. A few minutes later Salmon Arm would get their fourth two man advantage, as Colton McCarthy would get tossed from the game for his third stick infraction, while Mark Ferner would also get tossed from the game for arguing with the officials. Ferner wasnt very pleased with the reffing, had several visits with the referee's during the 2nd and 3rd periods. On the man advantage, getting lots of pressure Andrew Shortridge was forced into making several big saves down low. Shortridge robbed Josh Laframboise with a huge glove save from in close keeping the Vipers in the game. At point Shortridge sprawled across the crease to make a save, looked to be in some discomfort but stayed in the game. Vernon did a heck of a job on the penalty kill would kill off both minors before getting back on their own PP. But shorthanded Josh Blanchard was able to walk in alone for the breakaway couldnt beat Shortridge who closed the fivehole, making another big stop shorthanded. Vernon with some good looks, couldnt beat Angus Redmond after some very good chances as Salmon Arm would kill off the penalty. The Backs would get a late two man advantage as the crowd was very hostile. But Andrew Shortridge come up with several big saves, while the Vipers penalty kill was also big would kill off another five on three. The Vipers would get a late powerplay with two minutes to go, get Andrew Shortridge to the bench for the extra attacker and put a ton of pressure on the Silverbacks. Vernon moving the puck well, had several good looks and chances couldnt solve Angus Redmond. A wild goal mouth scramble, looked to have Michael Winnitoy cover his hand on the puck in the crease, but no call was made while play continued. Salmon Arm was able to clear the puck from the crease before the Vipers kept the puck inside the zone. Odeen Tufto would eventually find the back of the net, beating Redmond low along the ice getting Vernon to within a goal at 19:44 Christian Cakebread with the helper. The Vipers would leave Shortridge on the bench for the extra attacker, would get two or three cracks at a late chance but couldnt muster the game tying goal as Salmon Arm would hang on for the 4-3 victory. A penalty filled period saw both teams get into penalty trouble getting several powerplays. Not alot of flow in the 3rd with all the penalties took away from a great hockey game. The Silverbacks with two different five on three's couldnt put the game away, while the Vipers with a two man advantage of their own. The Backs with two great shorthanded chances. Both teams with some good chances while also come up with some good penalty kills. Both goaltenders were huge in the 3rd. Salmon Arm outshot Vernon 14-8.

Top Player's: (Vernon)

Latrell Cahrleson (2 assists) I thought played a strong game on the Viper backend. Charleson has been a great addition to the Viper roster, adding size, mobility and a good hard shot on the PP. 

Odeen Tufto (2 goals) Wasnt getting much puck luck early in the game but as the game went along, I thought was getting the bounces his way. Played strong up front, getting a ton of opportunities couldnt seem to connect on a few plays-passes early. Worked very hard, got the Vipers on the board and back into the game in the 2nd before making things interesting with a late goal to end the game.

Callum Volpe (1 goal & 1 assist) Had a huge game on the blueline. Volpe looked like a veteran d-man out there tonight. Saw alot of minutes and really stepped up his play, after Mac Ferner left the game in the opening period. Volpe was really shooting the puck tonight, getting lots of shots towards the Backs net. Also played very well defensively.

Andrew Shortridge (42 saves) Looked to have injured himself in the 3rd after making a big save but stayed in the game. Looked to be in some discomfort after making the save, but looked fine as the game went on. Shortridge has been the Vipers MVP this season and he played like it tonight making 42 saves in the loss was very strong on the penalty kill, when the team needed him the most. Made several big stops on the PK keeping the Vipers in the game, and giving them a chance to make a comeback.

Game Thought's: (Vernon)

A good start saw the Vipers play well, hold their own against the Backs early but couldnt hold onto that energy for long. I thought the Silverbacks carried alot of the play in the opening frame, had way too many shots & opportunities while the Vipers struggled getting through the neutral zone, didnt get alot of chances. Give Vernon credit they come back with a strong effort in the 2nd again battled hard, held their own saw them go down 2-0 before responding with a huge goal late on the powerplay to get back in the game and get the crowd into the game. But then the penalties come and the Vipers got into penalty trouble and it cost them. The Silverbacks with two quick back to back powerplays basically put the game away had a 4-1 lead heading into the 3rd. The second half of the 2nd and the entire 3rd was filled with nothing but penalties. Give the Vipers credit, they didnt fold the tent but got some solid goaltending from Andrew Shortridge as well as played very well on the penalty kill, would kill off two different five on three's in the third made a game of things. The Vipers battled and played hard in the 3rd would get two powerplay goals to make for a wild finish, would eventually run out of time, come very close to tying the game to force overtime. For a second straight night the Vipers give up over 40 shots. I thought the Vipers got alot more opportunities and zone time tonight, unlike last night in Salmon Arm. Vernon also played alot more physical and played with alot more energy and emotion-intensity tonight. 

Top Player's: (Salmon Arm)

Phil Middleton (1 assist) With another strong game on the backend. The veteran defenceman was hard to play against down low, played well defensively.

Michael Winnitoy played with an edge and was in the face of several Vipers for a second straight night.

Damian Chrcek (1 goal) I thought played a solid game on the backend.

Josh Laframboise (1 assist) Was very good through out tonight's game. Was robbed in the 3rd after a huge glove save off Andrew Shortridge.

Josh Blanchard who I thought was pretty quiet last night, played a heck of a game this evening. Really used his speed, was going to the net, worked hard.

Taro Hirose (1 goal) Has played very well against the Vipers in the past, looked very good. Made some smart plays, sees and reads the ice well.

Ross Heidt (1 assist) Had a strong game in Salmon Arm last night, played well tonight. Didnt get the scoring chances he had last night, but again was going to the net, made some nice plays.

Angus Redmond (33 saves) Has played very well over Vernon, didnt have to make any real difficult saves in the first two periods looked strong and confident in the 3rd, especially with the Vipers on the powerplay. Redmond made some key saves at times, coming up with some big stops. Looked confident, played his position well.

Game Thought's: (Salmon Arm)

The Silverbacks improve to 3-0 over the Vipers this season, 5-0 if you include the pre-season. Salmon Arm could have gone up by two or three goals in the 1st fired alot of shots on goal, carried the better of the play for most of the 1st period only managed the one goal. Alot more even play tonight in the 2nd and 3rd but the Silverbacks who look so calm and confident get the big goal when needed. Up 1-0 in the 2nd both teams were fairly even with not alot of chances before Taro Hirose with a big second goal puts the Backs up 2-0. Then the two quick back to back powerplay goals gives SA a three goal lead heading into the 3rd but Salmon Arm couldnt capitalize on several powerplays, could have easily put this game away. The Backs ran into a good goaltender and a good penalty kill by Vernon. Both teams picked up the physical play in the 2nd period and it looked like things may get carried away before a penalty filled second half to the 2nd period and full 3rd. Both teams took some undisaplined penalties but there were alot of soft calls made, that really ruined this hockey game. Both teams played hard and either team could have won tonight. Both teams had several good chances on the powerplay, both goaltenders come up with some huge saves. I thought the Silverbacks looked stronger and more aggresive on home ice last night, gave up alot more zone time and Viper scoring plays. 

Scratches:

Vernon:

Brett Stapley
Bo Pellah

Salmon Arm:

Nick Hutchison (Injured)
Sam DeMelo

Energy Player of the Game:

Riley Brandt

Three Star's:

1st Star: Josh Blanchard (1 goal & 1 assist)
2nd Star: Callum Volpe (1 goal & 1 assist)
3rd Star: Angus Redmond (33 saves)

BCHL Boxscore,

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=1477281&link=bchl
    

Game Preview: Salmon Arm @ Vernon:

Salmon Arm (17-6-2-1) @ Vernon (13-14-0-2) 6pm

Tonight is the third of seven regular season meetings between the Vernon Vipers & Salmon Arm Silverbacks. The Silverbacks lead the season series 2-0

Last Game:

Friday, November 27th Salmon Arm defeated Vernon 5-1

Next Game:

Wednesday, December 2nd Vernon @ Coquitlam
Saturday, December 5th Langley @ Salmon Arm

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 445-248-20-21

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 245-101-11-11 at home

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 200-137-9-11 on the road

Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon is 47-36-4-11 vs. Salmon Arm

Since the 2002-03 regular season Salmon Arm has outscored Vernon 324-320

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 20-15-1-6 at home vs. Salmon Arm

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 21-18-2-6 in Salmon Arm

Vernon is 2-7-0-1 in its last 10 regular season visits at the Shaw Centre

Vernon is 4-3-1-2 in its last 10 regular season home games vs Salmon Arm

Vernon is 3-6-1-0 in its last 10 regular season games vs. Salmon Arm

The Vipers last regular season win at home vs Salmon Arm was a 2-1 victory on Friday, October 13th 2015

The Silverbacks last regular season win at Kal Tire Place was a 6-2 victory on Wednesday, October 28th 2015

The Vipers last regular season win at the Shaw Centre was a 7-5 victory on Friday, November 28th 2014

The Silverbacks last regular season win at the Shaw Centre vs Vernon was a 5-1 win on Friday, November 27th 2015

The Vipers went 4-3-1-0 vs Salmon Arm last season

Lets take a look at the Vernon Vipers:


The Vernon Vipers are coming off a 5-1 loss in Salmon Arm last night, will face the Silverbacks for a fourth time this season (pre-season & regular season) are 0-3 vs Salmon Arm. The Vipers last regular season win at home vs Salmon Arm was a 2-1 victory on Friday, October 13th 2015. The Vipers have won two straight at home have lost four of their last seven home games. Vernon has lost back to back games and three of their last five are 4-5-0-1 in their last ten games. The Vipers sit 4th in the Division are six points up on Trail, six points back of West Kelowna and nine points back of 2nd place Salmon Arm. 

Colton McCarthy (14-5-19) leads the the team in goals with fourteen, while Liam Finlay (11-19-30) leads the team in points with thirty.

Graham Turnbull's Vernon Vipers Venom Blog

http://vipersvenom1.blogspot.ca/

Vernon Vipers 2015-16 regular season Stats:

Games Played: 29
Wins: 13
Losses: 14
Ties: 0
Overtime Losses: 2
Home Record: 8-6-0-1
Road Record: 5-8-0-1
Overtime Record: 2-2
Record vs Interior Division: 6-8-0-1
Record vs Island & Mainland Divisions: 7-6-0-1
When the Vipers score first: 7-4-0-2
When the opponents score first: 6-10-0-0
Leading after 1st Period: 7-2-0-1
Tied after 1st Period: 3-4-0-0
Trailing after 1st Period: 4-8-0-1
Leading after 2nd Period: 8-0-0-1
Tied after 2nd Period: 2-2-0-0
Trailing after 2nd Period: 3-12-0-0
Out shooting Opponents: 7-6-0-1
Out shot by Opponents: 5-8-0-1
One goal games: 3-4-0-2
Goals For: 93
Goals Against: 92
Place: 4th Place
Streak: Two game losing streak
Longest winning streak this year: Three games
Longest losing streak this year: Three games

Vernon Vipers Returning Players:

Liam Finlay (97)
Jagger Williamson (98)
Colton McCarthy (96)
Riley Brandt (96)
Mitchell Oliver (97)

Vernon Vipers Departing & traded players from last years team:

Liam Coughlin (94)
Anthony Latina (94)
Blaine Caton (97)
Nicholas Rasovic (96)
Linden Hora (96)
TJ Dumonceaux (94)
Jarrod Schamerhorn (95)
Luke Shiplo (95)
Luke Voltin (95)
Brandon Egli (94)
Mitch Meek (96)
Johhny Coughlin (95)
Kenny Citron (95)
Riley Guenther (94)
Mackenzie Bauer (96)
Danny Todosychuk (94)

Vernon’s Home record vs Salmon Arm this season:

0-1-0-0

Vernon’s Road record vs Salmon Arm this season:

0-1-0-0

Vernon’s scoring leaders vs Salmon Arm this season:

Colton McCarthy (1-1-2)
Riley Brandt (1-1-2)
Bo Pellah (0-2-2)
Darren Rizzolo (0-1-1)
Christian Cakebread (1-0-1)
Liam Finlay (0-1-1)

Andrew Shortridge (0-1 Record)
Brendan Barry )-1 Record)

-Vernon has the leagues 9th best powerplay

-The Vipers have the leagues 9th best penalty kill

Lets take a look at the Salmon Arm Silverbacks: 

The Salmon Arm Silverbacks make their second of four regular season visits to Kal Tire Place. The Silverbacks won 6-2 in Vernon on October 28th are coming off a 5-1 victory over the Vipers Friday in Salmon Arm. These two teams will meet again in Vernon on December 9th. The Backs have lost two straight on the road and three of their last five games away from home. SA has won four of their last five games are 6-3-0-1 in their last ten. Salmon Arm sits 2nd in the Interior Division are three points up on West Kelowna and thirteen points back of league leading Penticton.   

Ross Heidt (19-11-30) lead the Silverbacks lead in goals with nineteen, while Taro Hirose (5-27-32) leads the team in points with thirty two.

Ryley Booth played in 10 games last season with the Vipers before being traded to Salmon Arm on October 28th 2014

Troy Mick played with the Vernon Lakers and was an Assistant Coach-Head Coach & GM with the Vernon Vipers before joining the Salmon Arm Silverbacks.

Ian Douglas's Salmon Arm Silverbacks blog

http://backstalk.wordpress.com/

Salmon Arm Silverbacks 2015-16 regular season Stats:

Games Played: 26
Wins: 17
Losses: 6
Ties: 2
Overtime Losses: 1
Home Record: 10-2-2-1
Road Record: 7-4-0-0
Goals For: 112
Goals Against: 70
Place: 2nd Place
Streak: One game winning streak

Salmon Arm Silverbacks Returning Players:

Josh Blanchard (96)
Carson Bolduc (96)
Ryley Booth (96)
Damian Chrcek (96)
Ross Heidt (96)
Taro Hirose (96)
Nick Hutchison (95)
Joshua Laframboise (96)
Phil Middleton (95)
Colton Thibault (95)
Angus Redmond (95)

Salmon Arm Silverbacks  Departing & traded players from last years team:

Andrew Farny (95)
Shane Danyluk (94)
Logan Mick (96)
Bryden Marsh (94)
Thomas Plese (94)
Jordan Burns (95)
Branden Wagner (96)
Chase Priskie (96)
Taylor Maruya (95)
Anthony Gardner (95)
Zach Dyment (96)
Jack Berezan (95)

Salmon Arm's Home record vs. Vernon this season:

1-0-0-0

Salmon Arm's Road record vs. Vernon this season:

1-0-0-0

Salmon Arm's scoring leaders vs. Vernon this season:

Carson Bolduc (1-3-4)
Ross Heidt (3-1-4)
Josh Laframboise (1-3-4)
Colton Thibault (1-2-3)
Taro Hirose (0-3-3)
Chase Zieky (2-1-3)
Nick Hutchison (1-1-2)
Josh Blanchard (1-1-2)
Brett Stewart (0-1-1)
Jared Turcotte (0-1-1)
Marcus Mitchell (1-0-1)
Ryley Booth (0-1-1)
Kodi Scharz (0-1-1)
Elijiah Barriga (0-1-1)

Angus Redmond (2-0 Record)

-Salmon Arm has the leagues 5th best powerplay

-The Silverbacks have the league's 5th best penalty kill

Here's a look at both teams rosters:

Vernon Vipers:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/stats_1team.cfm?leagueID=2393&clientID=1413&teamid=224096

Salmon Arm Silverbacks:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/stats_1team.cfm?leagueID=2393&clientID=1413&teamid=224097

Salmon Arm 5 Vernon 1

For anyone who could not attend or watch tonight’s Vipers game here are my thoughts and views from tonight’s game. You may agree or disagree but we all have our own view and opinion on any game we watch. This is my opinion and my thoughts on how I saw tonight’s game. I try to be unbiased and give a fare recap on both sides. Thanks for stopping by & visiting my blog.

I was at tonight's Vipers-Silverbacks Game as Salmon Arm defeated Vernon 5-1 in front of 1,270 fans at the Shaw Centre.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon: Brendan Barry
Salmon Arm: Angus Redmond

1st Period: The Backs come out of the gates strong, taking it to the Vipers early and often. Salmon Arm had lots of jump & energy off the opening faceoff were firing pucks on goal, got the early jump on Vernon. The Silverbacks with four quick shots just two minutes into the period would also come close to opening the scoring. Just over two minutes into the 1st Brendan Barry was made a save, giving out a big rebound before the puck took a bounce or hit someone in front before a goal mouth scramble. The Vipers somehow were able to clear the puck from the front of the net and dodge an early bullet. But just a minute and a half later SA would open the scoring. Veteran Taro Hirose with a nice lengthy pass from the sidewall setup a streaking Ross Heidt going hard to the net beat Barry giving Salmon Arm the early 1-0 lead at 3:38 Hirose & Josh Laframboise collected the assists. The Vipers would respond with a good pushback shift. Charley Michalowski alone in front couldnt beat Angus Redmond in close on the Vipers first shot of the period and first scoring attempt. On the following shift Vernon would get the games first powerplay and capitalize. Christian Cakebread in front beat Redmond tying the game at 5:03 Bo Pellah and Liam Finlay with the helpers. About a minute and a half later Carson Bolduc with a nice rush would get a parcial breakaway before being stopped by Barry. On the following play SA would get their first look with the man advantage. Carson Bolduc's shot was stopped before Chase Zieky burried the rebound giving Salmon Arm a 2-1 lead at 9:16 Bolduc and Elijiah Barriga picked up the assists. The Backs werent done there, less then a minute later Ross Heidt with a nice rush blew by Mitchell Oliver before beating Brendan Barry giving Salmon Arm a 3-1 lead at 10:10 Josh Laframboise & Ryley Booth collected the helpers. It was all Silverbacks as the Vipers were badly outplayed. Vernon with very little zone time played most of the period in their own end. The Backs were flying, moving the puck, getting some good opportunities. Vernon was being outshot 17-4 at this point and not in the hockey game. Christian Cakebread and Michael Winnitoy were exchanging words heading back to the bench. With five minutes remaining Carson Bolduc with a great scoring play, couldnt beat Barry. The Silverbacks would get a late powerplay. Jagger Williamson couldnt get the puck out at the blueline and it cost Vernon. SA kept the puck inside, kept the play alive and made the Vipers pay. Josh Laframboise found the back of the net from the slot gave Salmon Arm a 4-1 lead at 17:35 Josh Blanchard and Colton Thibault with the assists. The Backs would head back to the powerplay less then a minute later and for a third time this evening find the back of the net with the man advantage. Damian Chrcek gave Salmon Arm a 5-1 lead at 19:23 Kodi Schwarz & Chase Zieky picked up the assists. Vernon now showing their frustration took some undisaplined penalites on the following play. The Vipers coming unglued in the final minute, were trying to get under the skin of the Silverbacks, exchanging words, getting the gloves in the face, doing whatever it takes to get under the skin. SA would head back for another powerplay with just seconds left. Salmon Arm was up 5-1 after 20 minutes of play. It was all Silverbacks who totally outplayed and dominated the opening frame scoring five times, three times with the man advantage. The Backs were flying off the openinh faceoff, had lots of jump and energy played most of the period in the offensive zone. SA with several good opportunities looked good with and without the puck. The Vipers on the other hand, got off to a very poor start. Vernon looked like they didnt show up and it showed on the scoreboard. The Vipers with very little pressure or attack had troubles getting through the neutral zone and getting any real zone time. Vernon with just one scoring chance couldnt muster much of anything this period. Salmon Arm outshot Vernon 24-11.

2nd Period: The Silverbacks started the period with the PP that was carried over from the end of the 1st period. With almost a full powerplay to work with Salmon Arm had decent pressure but couldnt muster many chances until the final end of the powerplay. A goal mouth scramble in close but somehow the puck stayed out with Vipers starting goaltender Brendan Barry down and out, the Vipers managed to clear the puck from the front of the net and kill off the penalty. Just less then two minutes later Vernon would get an early powerplay, with good control of the play the Vipers were unable to get any real shots towards the goal as the Backs with a strong penalty kill would block the shooting lanes, giving the Vipers no time or space. SA would kill off the minor. About a minute and a half later Josh Laframboise with a shot from well outside the circle would get tipped in front by Ross Heidt looking for the hat trick was stopped by Brendan Barry who made a quick save off the deflection in front. About a minute later Carson Bolduc with a nice move inside the Vernon blueline went around the Viper d-man before going for the wrap around come very close to giving Salmon Arm a 6-1 lead but it was a Viper defenceaman who got his stick in the way to stop Bolduc on the wrap around on a close call. Shortly after the Vipers would get their second man advantage of the middle frame. Once again the Vipers were unable to get any real scoring chances, as the Backs were doing a great job at blocking the shooting lanes, had the Vipers boxed out couldnt get any kind of offence going. The Silverbacks would kill off the minor. Vernon with a much better period really stepped up their game this period, picked up their skating, were moving the puck, getting lots of zone time but didnt get alot of grade "A" chances. During the radio timeout SA backup goaltender Brandon Kegler was giving it to Vipers goaltender Brendan Barry as he made his way back to the net after the stopage in play. Both goaltenders were exchanging words before the puck drop. The Vipers carried a slight edge in play, couldnt get much going other then just that, carrying the better of the play at times. Salmon Arm had their fare chances and edge in play but other then two chances in the first six or seven minutes that was about it, as both teams really tightened up defensively. with just over four minutes to go, Mitchell Oliver's point shot was quickly snagged by the glove of Silverbacks starting goaltender Angus Redmond who made a nice glove save in the final few minutes of the period. It was 5-1 Salmon Arm after 40 minutes of play. The Backs with three good opportunities in the first six to seven minutes didnt generate much didnt get nearly as many chances as the 1st period. Vernon really picked up their game after a very poor start and played much better. The Vipers controlled alot of the play, having a slight edge in play but didnt generate much for offence getting just one maybe two good chances. The Viper defence played much better this period, really limited the Backs scoring chances. Brendan Barry also seemed to settle down and looked more confident between the pipes. The Vipers needed to try and capitalize on one if not both powerplays this period. Salmon Arm outshot Vernon 12-9.

3rd Period: The Backs would get an early powerplay but didnt really generate much for chances as the Vipers with a big penalty kill early to start the final frame. Shortly after Jimmy Lambert would turn on the wheels going one on one with a Salmon Arm defender waited for Charley Michalowski to join the play tried setting up the Viper newconmer couldnt connect on the pass, on a miss opportunity. Both teams got a little chippy in the 3rd taking shots at one another through out the period. Jagger Williamson and Damian Chrcek got tangled up in the corner, Chrcek had a good hold of Williamson's stick before giving Williamson a shot to the head but it was both players that would head to the penalty box. Both teams went back and fourth with not alot of great scoring chances. Both teams looked to have a few opportunities off the rush but couldnt connect on the pass. Vernon would lose veteran defenceman Bo Pellah just past the midway mark. Pellah took a good slash across the wrist coming across the blueline, with no call on the play Pellah started beaking with the official. While the play continued Pellah skated towards the referee giving him a mouthful before given a ten minute misconduct and tossed from the game. Mark Ferner wasnt too pleased, let both officials know about the missed slashing call on that play. A few minutes later the Vipers would get a shot with the PP. Joe Sacco with a tip in front couldnt beat Angus Redmond who made a quick save off the Viper rookie as SA would kill off the remainder of the penalty. Tempers heated up in the final minutes as both teams were going after one another after the whistle. The Vipers picked up the physical play in the final few minutes, trying to send a message for tomorrow's re-match in Vernon. The Vipers would take a few undisaplined minors giving the Silverbacks a late powerplay. Brendan Barry with a few good saves as the Vipers would kill off the minor before the final buzzer. Salmon Arm would come away with the 5-1 victory. Both teams had control of the play at times in a fairly even period. For a second straight period not alot of good opportunities. The Vipers with another good period didnt give up a goal, didnt get alot of chances had control of the play at times but didnt generate much for offence. A fairly chippy period with alot of crap going on after the whistles. Vernon outshot Salmon Arm 8-7.

Top Player's: (Vernon)

Jimmy Lambert was really flying this evening, showed alot of hustle and hard work, had a great two on one opportunity couldnt get his pass to connect with Charley Michalowski. I thought Lambert played with lots of jump and energy was one of the better-more consistant Vipers.

Game Thought's; (Vernon)

The Vipers didnt show up for the start of the game and it cost them the game. The Vipers just like the 3rd period in Penticton Wednesday were totally outplayed and dominated the entire 1st period. Vernon gave up 24 shots, five goals, three were on the powerplay were down 5-1 after just the opening period. The Vipers played most of the period in their own end, had very little zone time, had troubles getting through the neutral zone. Whatever was said between periods worked as the Vipers come ready to play, really stepped up their game and played much better from here until the end of the game. I thought Vernon played fairly well in the 2nd and 3rd periods other then the odd undisaplined penalty didnt give up a goal after the 1st period, limited the Silverbacks opportunities and played much better defensively. Brendan Barry who hasnt looked very good in a Viper uniform this season, seemed to settle down after the opening period, gained some confidence and played much better in the final two periods. Ive said it all season, this team is very inconsistent from game to game, period to period. You just dont know what Viper team is going to show up each night. The Vipers seem to be getting better from period to period lately but in Penticton that wasnt the case. The Vipers played very well in the first two periods before totally getting outplayed in the 3rd. Tonight, it was the 1st where the Vipers looked their worst but picked it up and turned the game around in the 2nd and 3rd periods. If it wasnt for that bad 1st period, you have to wonder what may have been the outcome-score? The Vipers need to be more consistant and play a full sixty minutes vs the top teams like Salmon Arm, Penticton, West Kelowna etc if they want beat these teams. They cant expect to play a period or two and expect to beat the top teams in the league, let alone the teams below them. The Vipers have lost three straight in Salmon Arm and have just two wins in their last ten games at the Shaw Centre. 

Top Player's: (Salmon Arm)

Phil Middleton had a solid night on the backend. Here's a kid who seems to play very well against the Vipers close to every game. 

Michael Winnitoy played with a bit of an edge, was in the face of the Vipers all night, didnt back down, played with alot of intensity.

Cameron Trott was another SA defenceman that I thought played very well.

Carson Bolduc (1 assist) Was all over the ice tonight, the veteran forward had a strong game up front for the Backs was hard to contain and defend against all night. Had several good opportunities, was driving to the net, really moving his feet, skating hard, competed and played well.

Chase Zieky (1 goal & 1 assist) I thought played very well, collecting two points. Was in and around the net, worked hard.

Josh Laframboise (1 goal & 2 assists) Was another Silverback who had a strong game up front. A bigger body, was also going to the net, worked and competed hard all night, quick on his feet, a good skater, gave the Vipers troubles.

Ross Heidt (2 goals) Come close to getting a hat trick had a big game for the Backs.

Game Thought's: (Salmon Arm)

The Silverbacks improve to 2-0 vs Vernon this season have won all three games this season over the Vipers (pre-season & regular season) outscoring the Vipers 21-7 in those three games. After a 4-3 loss in Prince George Saturday, the Backs were ready for tonight and come ready to play. SA jumped out to a 5-1 lead after just one period, fired twenty four shots towards Brendan Barry. Salmon Arm played with lots of jump and energy took it too the Vipers most of the opening period. Once Vernon stepped up their game in the 2nd and 3rd the Silverbacks didnt get as many scoring chances as they had in the 1st. The Vipers did a good job at limiting Salmon Arm's opportunities. Salmon Arm's defence was strong all night, took away alot of time and space from the Vipers, limited their opportunities and cleared the front of the net, allowing Angus Redmond to see almost every Vernon shot. The Backs defence did a great job at clogging up the shooting lanes, keeping the Vipers to the outside. I thought SA still played well in the final two periods were also up by four goals may have took their foot off the gas just a little. Specialty teams was a difference, the Backs went 3-6 with the man advantage, while the Vipers went 1-4. Salmon Arm stayed out of the penalty box, didnt get caught up in the after the whistle altercations. What kind of game are we in for tomorrow night? I really like the looks of this team, a veteran team with lots of veteran leadership, an older-bigger team, that has skill and good defence as well as a solid goaltender in veteran Angus Redmond. Brandon West & Troy Mick have done a great job with this team so far this season, have the team to make a good playoff run. A great crowd out for tonight's game.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Darren Rizzolo
Ben Butcher

Salmon Arm:

Nick Hutchison (Injured)
Sam De Melo

BCHL Boxscore,

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=1477273&link=bchl

Ian Douglas's Salmon Arm Silverbacks Blog,

https://backstalk.wordpress.com/

Graham Turnbull's Vernon Vipers Blog,

http://vipersvenom1.blogspot.ca/