I have had season tickets for the past 28 years and been following Junior hockey in Vernon for well over thirty years. Ive missed only three home games since 1998-99 season. 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 exhibition Vipers-Spruce Kings exhibition game as Vernon defeated Prince George 4-2 in front of a small crowd at Kal Tire Place. (No attendance announced).
Starting Goaltenders:
Vernon: Ty Taylor
Prince George: Brad Cooper
1st Period: Fourty seconds into the opening period new recruit Josh Prokop with some nice hands, got in behind the PG defence before cutting hard towards the goal, was in alone couldn't beat Brad Cooper in close. On the following play Prokop setup Quinton Ong on a Vipers odd man rush, but Cooper with another solid stop. Cooper with two big saves inside the opening minute. The Snakes would get the games first powerplay, less then two minutes into the period. Vernon with just two shots struggled with the man advantage, looked disorganised as the Spruce Kings were able to kill off the minor. Just over three minutes later the Vipers would head back to the powerplay. Adam Panacci with a quality chance couldn't capitalize, before Jimmy Lambert in alone for the breakaway was denied by Brad Cooper who reached out for the big save on the penalty kill. The Snakes with a little more energy, created some good chances, couldn't capitalise were 0-2 with the man advantage. Just as the penalty expired, on the following play, Vernon would get their third straight powerplay. After a few looks-opportunities, the Spruce Kings with another big penalty kill, killed off the minor. It was all Vipers at this point were outshooting PG 9-0. The Spruce Kings needed just over ten minutes to record their first shot on goal, before Patrick Cozzi would get a quality chance out front, be stopped by Ty Taylor. On the following play Ryan Brushett lead the attack on a two on one rush, setup Connor Marritt in front was robbed by Brad Cooper who come across the blue paint, to make a game saver, keeping this game scoreless. In the second half, former Surrey Eagle-Penticton Vees forward Ben Brar got tangled up with Niko Karamanis between the two benches as the two exchanged a few punches at each other, trying to get off the ice. Vernon come very close to opening the scoring after Adam Panacci was stopped in close before a Viper tried banging home the rebound, Panacci raised his arms in the air, thought the Snakes scored but the goal was waived off after a quick whistle stopped the play. With about five minutes remaining a small delay after Brad Cooper needed some help with his equipment, stopped play for a few minutes. Late in the frame Nolan Welsh opened the scoring on a scramble in front, beat Ty Taylor low along the ice, on just the Spruce Kings fifth shot of the 1st giving Prince George a 1-0 lead at 18:24 Nick Sutter & Kyle Johnson picked up the helpers. The Spruce Kings with very little zone time, capitalized on some hard work in front of the Vernon goal. It was 1-0 Prince George after 20 minutes of play. The Vipers jumped on the Spruce Kings early and often, had a ton of zone time had three powerplays in the first half. The Snakes couldn't capitalize with the man advantage, went 0-4 on the PP. The Vipers with some nice passing that period, had nobody in front of the net on the powerplay. Vernon with several quality chances, couldn't solve Brad Cooper who was solid between the pipes for PG. If it wasn't for Cooper, this would be a totally different outcome after the first twenty minutes. The Snakes looked good, were by far the better team, outplayed the Spruce Kings for the entire period but were down a goal. Prince George took way too many penalties, but got lucky after getting some big stops from their goaltender. The Spruce Kings played most of the opening period in their own end, had troubles getting out of their own end and through the neutral zone. PG struggled offensively, needed just over ten minutes to get their first shot on goal, had just a handful of shifts deep in the Vernon end, managed to get the lone goal of the period. Vernon outshot Prince George 17-5.
2nd Period: The Spruce Kings come out hard, jumped on the Snakes off the opening faceoff. Prince George with good pressure early, before Josh Prokop with a parcial breakaway was denied by Spruce Kings starting goaltender Brad Cooper. Cooper then had to be alert, to make a big stop off Connor Marritt on the second opportunity. Two big saves a minute ten into the middle frame. Prince George come right back and again had good pressure in the attacking zone, but no real scoring chances. The Spruce Kings looked to turn things around, had Vernon back on their heels at times early to start the 2nd period. PG would get their first look with the man advantage just before the midway mark, but shorthanded Jimmy Lambert and Brett Stapley broke free were stoned in close by Brad Cooper who made another big stop. On the following play the Spruce Kings would take a penalty sending the teams to four on four. Even strength Ryan Brushett off the faceoff tied the game 1-1 at 9:59 Brushett's goal was unassisted. Two and a half minutes later Nick Sutter's point shot was stopped by Vipers starting goaltender Ty Taylor who made a quick pad save before having to through out the glove, to make a quick glove save off the rebound. Two big saves for Taylor. The Spruce Kings were the better of the two teams in the first half but it was Vernon who had the better scoring opportunities. Brett Stapley setup Alex Swetlikoff on another odd man rush, Swetlikoff couldn't beat Cooper in close. Shortly after Ryan Brushett would get his second of the night, giving Vernon their first lead of the evening, 2-1 at 15:49 Finn Evans and Connor Marritt with the assists. Prince George would get a late powerplay minutes later but unable to capitalize. Finn Evans making his Vipers debut after being acquired in a trade with St. Michaels broke in for the parcial breakaway with about twenty six seconds remaining couldn't solve Brad Cooper in tight. Vernon was up 2-1 after 40 minutes of play. The Spruce Kings turned things around, playing a much stronger and more competitive game, carried the better of the play, but had troubles creating/generating any offence. PG stayed out of the penalty box, only taking one minor that period, gave up too many odd man rushes. The Vipers didn't look as sharp-organized, didn't get a lot of zone time-good pressure. The Snakes did have the better of the scoring plays, had several odd man rushes-parcial breakaways, had troubles solving Brad Cooper down low-in close. I thought the Spruce Kings were the better of the two teams. Prince George outshot Vernon 15-13.
3rd Period: For a second straight period the Spruce Kings had the early jump to start the period. With the Snakes back on their heels early, couldn't clear the zone, were caught chasing players, ran into some trouble defensively in the opening few minutes. Prince George with strong pressure, had the Vipers running in circles before Nolan Welsh down low tied the game 2-2 at 5:11 Liam Watson Brown and Jarod Hovde collected the assists. Fifty seven seconds later Josh Prokop's shot missed the net before Niko Karamanis buried the rebound, giving Vernon a 3-2 lead at 6:08 Prokop with the lone helper. The Snakes with several odd man rushes couldn't convert. Coleton Bilodeau, Finn Evans and Jimmy Lambert all denied on odd man rushes. For a second straight period the Prince George Spruce Kings carried the better of the play, had several shifts with lots of pressure but again didn't really generate much for offence. PG with a few goal mouth scrambles couldn't seem to get much puck luck in and around the net. Ty Taylor was forced into making a few big stops down low. With three and a half minutes left, the Snakes would get some breathing room after Chris Jandric setup Adam Panacci giving Vernon a 4-2 lead at 16:44 Jandric with the assist. Prince George would get Brad Cooper to the bench with two minutes remaining for the extra attacker. Cooper had troubles getting to the bench, slipped-fell twice before stumbling his way to the bench. Jimmy Lambert looked to give Vernon a 5-2 lead somehow missed the open cage from the top of the circles with about 1:37 left, shortly after Alex Swetlikoff missed the open net. The Spruce Kings had troubles getting the puck in deep, to generate any kind of late push, would run out of time as Vernon defeated Prince George 4-2. For a second straight period I thought PG was the better of the two teams. The Spruce Kings carried the better of the play, had a ton of zone time but not a lot of quality chances through out the period-the entire game, nor generate enough pucks to the net. Prince George had the Vipers running around at times-back on their heels but also gave up way too many odd man rushes. Vernon saw a lot of time in their own end, did generate some good quality opportunities but never had more then a few seconds of one shift inside the Spruce Kings zone. The Snakes had the better of the scoring chances, looked disorganised at times in the final two periods. Vernon outshot Prince George 11-7.
Top Player's: (Vernon)
Brett Stapley played with a lot of jump, was creating-generating opportunities, had troubles finding the back of the net.
Ryan Brushett (2 goals) Had a strong 2nd period, with back to back goals.
Connor Marritt (1 assist) I thought played well for most of the night, made some good plays.
Josh Prokop (1 assist) I really like the looks of this young kid. Had a great chance just fourty seconds into the game, created/generated a few real quality chances in the victory.
Adam Panacci (1 goal) Was another youngster who played hard, made some good plays, worked hard through out the game.
Jimmy Lambert Couldn't buy a goal tonight, was stopped on the breakaway, had several good looks-opportunities, also made some real nice plays to generate some offense. Missed a wide open net late in the 3rd, didn't have any puck luck tonight.
Finn Evans (1 assist) Made his Vipers debut picked up one assist, generated-created plays, was denied on a late breakaway inside the final minute of the 1st and then lost the handle in close on a good chance in the 3rd. Has some decent size, can skate-make plays.
Quinton Ong Had a few good looks-chances vs Prince George. This kid is quick, makes things happen in a hurry. Not the biggest kid, but really sees the ice well.
Ty Taylor (25 saves) Only faced five shots in the opening frame, had to be sharp at times in the 2nd and 3rd periods with the Spruce Kings having good pressure and the better of the play at times. Taylor got lucky on a few plays-chances, caught some breaks but also made some big stops.
Game Thought's: (Vernon)
The Vipers jumped on the Spruce Kings early, couldn't capitalize on the powerplay. The Snakes moved the puck around, had several good looks-quality chances couldn't solve Brad Cooper in that 1st period. For the second straight home game, the Snakes run into a hot goaltender who played very well. Vernon went 0-4 with the man advantage in the 1st really needed a goal or two to break the ice, gain some confidence and try and build off it. Nothing worse then outplaying a team, on home ice yet your down a goal heading into the second period. I thought Vernon played well in the first, outplayed Prince George but were down a goal. The Vipers speed and quick breakout was giving the Spruce Kings problems most of the night. I didn't think the Vipers played as well in the 2nd and 3rd periods, sure they had several great opportunities but very little pressure/zone time. Vernon played a lot of the final two periods in their own end, were back on their heels at times, caught running around. I thought the Snakes were disorganised at times, weren't all on the same page in the 2nd and 3rd periods. I didn't think the Vipers were skating as well as they did in the first twenty minutes. This game sure didn't have the intensity-emotion Friday-Saturday's games vs Salmon Arm had. Very little if any hitting tonight, very little emotion-intensity through out the game. Not much of an atmosphere inside Kal Tire Place on a Thursday smokey-summer evening. Vernon wearing their road jersey's for tonight's game. I counted eleven players-scratches in the stands, meaning it looks like the Vipers still have thirty one players on their roster. The Vipers acquired veteran 20 yr old goaltender Anthony Yamnitsky & veteran 20 yr old forward Tanner Wishnowski today. Both player's weren't in the lineup, but expected to play Saturday. A very small crowd on hand for a mid week game, my guess would be 500-600 people. Im surprised at the number of Vipers season ticket holders not showing up. Noticed several long time season ticket holders not showing up for the pre-season games. I wish the Vipers would print out both teams entire rosters, including the players sitting in the stands. Before game time announce your scratches, this way fans know whos still in camp and whos been cut etc. The Vipers improve to 2-0-0-1 in the pre-season have one exhibition game remaining Saturday vs Trail.
Top Player's: (Prince George)
Patrick Cozzi Isnt the biggest kid but plays big. Very quick on his feet, shifty in and around the goal, worked-earned his spots in front, creates-generates plays.
Ben Brar Played hard, used his size to lay the body, got tangled up with Niko Karamanis between the two benches, was one of the Spruce Kings who stood out-played well.
Brad Cooper (37 saves) Played very well in the loss. Facing seventeen shots in the 1st period, made several big stops through out the period, keeping his team in the contest. Cooper was very good down low and in tight, covers a lot of net, covers his angles and plays his position well. Doesn't give up many if any rebounds, was solid between the pipes for PG.
Game Thought's: (Prince George)
Playing in just their second pre-season game of the season, the Spruce Kings looked a little rusty-had some bus legs early. PG played their first and last game Tuesday night in Grande Prairie vs the Alberta Junior Hockey League Storm, took way too many penalties in the opening frame, were outplayed-outchanced the entire 1st but very lucky to be up 1-0 after twenty. PG got some solid goaltending, if it wasn't for Brad Cooper, this could have easily been a much higher score-outcome. Prince George played most if not the entire 1st in their own end with just a handful of shifts in the Vipers end. Give the Spruce Kings credit, they re grouped and battled back-played hard in the 2nd and 3rd periods. PG carried a lot of the play at times in the final two periods, didn't have a lot of great chances. The Spruce Kings did have trouble giving up odd man rushes-breakaways. The Snakes had a good dozen odd man rushes-parcial breakaways through out the evening. The Spruce Kings wearing their third jerseys, need to find more offence. Didn't generate-create much for offence. It seemed like most of the Spruce Kings shots were just that, shots. Other then a select few real good looks-opportunities, the Spruce Kings lacked offence. If PG had a few players that could put the puck in the net-create some offence, this may have been a different outcome. I didn't like the Spruce Kings third jerseys. I saw just one player-scratch in the stands for PG. Prince George falls to 1-1 return home to host the Grande Prairie Storm in their final exhibition game Saturday.
Scratches:
No scratches were listed
Three Star's: (No three stars were given-announced)
1st Star:
2nd Star:
3rd Star:
Game Summary-Boxscore
The league website doesn't give any stats/info during pre-season games.
Here are both teams rosters-lineup
Vernon:
Mitch Andres D (98)
Michael Young D (98)
Cale Cripps D (99)
Kyler Shmigelsky D (00)
Brett Stapley F (99)
Ryan Brushett F (98)
Coleton Bilodeau F (00)
Connor Marritt F (99)
Nicholas Cherkowski F (00)
Josh Prokop F (00)
Alex Swetlikoff F (01)
Niko Karamanis F (98)
Adam Panacci F (99)
Jimmy Lambert F (97)
Chris Jandric D (98)
Jack Judson D (00)
Finn Evans F (99)
Quinton Ong F (99)
Ty Taylor G (99)
Connor Webb G (99)
Prince George:
Nick Bochen D (01)
Chays Ruddy D (97)
Dylan Anhorn D (99)
James Orr F (99)
Ethan De Jong F (99)
Patrick Cozzi F (98)
Jacob Slipec F (01)
Jarod Hovde F (97)
Kyle Johnson F (98)
Corey Cunningham F (01)
Nolan Welsh F (99)
Ben Brar F (98)
Shawn Kennedy F (99)
Reid Irwin F (99)
Liam Watson Brown D (99)
Dustin Manz F (99)
Kent Johnson F (02)
Nick Sutter D (97)
Evan DeBrouwer G (97)
Brad Cooper G (99)
Thursday, August 31, 2017
Vipers Acquire Yamnitsky & Wishnowski:
This is posted on the Morning Star website:Vipers land pair of veteran 20-year-olds
The Vernon Vipers have added a pair of 20-year-olds to their B.C. Hockey League roster.
Kevin Mitchell
Thu Aug 31st, 2017
The Vernon Vipers have added a pair of 20-year-olds to their roster.
Goalie Anthony Yamnitsky, who starred for the regular-season BCHL champion Wenatchee Wild, and left winger Tanner Wishnowski, a three-year WHL veteran, are in the Snakes’ den.
Yamnitsky compiled a 31-7 record and 2.23 goals against average with the Wild. The Ohio product was 4-4 in the playoffs.
Yamnitsky, whose WHL rights are held by the Everett Silvertips, is from North Royalton, a town of 30,000 in the Cayahoga County of Ohio. The 6-foot, 180-pounder previously played for the U.S. Under 17 team and club hockey with the Cleveland Lumberjacks and Barons.
Wishnowski, named Top Forward at the 2014 Telus Midget Nationals in Moose Jaw with the Okanagan Rockets, has produced 11 goals and 26 points in 64 Major Junior games with the Kelowna Rockets, Spokane Chiefs and Prince George Cougars. He hails from Oakbank, Man., a small farming community just east of Winnipeg.
Tanner Wishnowski Player Profile:
http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=253295
Anthony Yamnitsky Player Profile:
http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=303515
Game Preview: Exhibition: Prince George @ Vernon:
Prince George (1-0-0-0) @ Vernon (1-0-0-1) 7pm
Tonight is the first and only pre-season meeting between the Vernon Vipers & Prince George Spruce Kings. The Vipers wwent 2-0-0-0 vs Prince George last season. Tonight's game will be live on Hockey TV.
Last Game:
Saturday, August 26th Vernon defeated Salmon Arm 4-3
Tuesday, August 29th Prince George defeated Grande Prairie (AJHL) 3-1
Next Game:
Saturday, September 2nd Trail @ Vernon
Saturday, September 2nd Grande Prairie (AJHL) @ Prince George
Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon is 42-20-2-4 vs Prince George
Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon has outscored Prince George 273-193
Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 16-6-2-4 at home vs. Prince George
Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 18-11-0-1 in Prince George
The Vipers are 6-3-1-0 in their last ten games vs Prince George
The Vipers are 7-2-1-0 in their last ten home games vs Prince George
The Vipers are 7-3-0-0 in their last ten games in Prince George
The Vipers last regular season win at home vs. Prince George was a 5-4 double overtime win on Sunday, January 29th 2017
The Spruce Kings last regular season win in Vernon was a 4-3 victory on Saturday, October 10th 2015
The Vipers last regular season win in Prince George was a 5-3 victory on Wednesday, January 11th 2017
The Spruce Kings last regular season win at home vs. Vernon was a 3-0 victory on Friday, October 4th 2013
Here's a look at last years season series vs Prince George
January 11th Vernon @ Prince George: Vipers won 5-3
January 29th Prince George @ Vernon: Vipers won 5-4 double overtime
Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon has outscored Prince George 273-193
Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 16-6-2-4 at home vs. Prince George
Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 18-11-0-1 in Prince George
The Vipers are 6-3-1-0 in their last ten games vs Prince George
The Vipers are 7-2-1-0 in their last ten home games vs Prince George
The Vipers are 7-3-0-0 in their last ten games in Prince George
The Vipers last regular season win at home vs. Prince George was a 5-4 double overtime win on Sunday, January 29th 2017
The Spruce Kings last regular season win in Vernon was a 4-3 victory on Saturday, October 10th 2015
The Vipers last regular season win in Prince George was a 5-3 victory on Wednesday, January 11th 2017
The Spruce Kings last regular season win at home vs. Vernon was a 3-0 victory on Friday, October 4th 2013
Here's a look at last years season series vs Prince George
January 11th Vernon @ Prince George: Vipers won 5-3
January 29th Prince George @ Vernon: Vipers won 5-4 double overtime
Let's take a look at the Vernon Vipers:
The 1-0-0-1 Vernon Vipers are coming off a 4-3 win Saturday in Salmon Arm, have two pre-season games remaining before opening the 2017-18 regular season September 8th in Salmon Arm. The Vipers & Spruce Kings will meet again, twice during the regular season with both games being played in January. The Snakes swept the regular season series last season, going 2-0 vs Prince George. Vernon has thirteen players returning from last year, finished 2nd in the Interior Division going 30-19-5-4 falling in seven games to the Penticton Vees in the Interior Division Finals.
Vernon Vipers Roster:
http://bchl.ca/stats/roster/21
Steven Jandric (27-24-51) lead the team last season in goals with twenty seven & in points with fifty one.
Kevin Kraus was an Assistant Coach with the 2013-14 Salmon Arm Silverbacks
Vernon Vipers 2016-17 final regular season stats:
Games Played: 58
Wins: 30
Losses: 19
Ties: 4
Overtime Wins: 1
Overtime Losses: 5
Home Record: 18-7-3-1
Road Record: 12-12-2-3
Overtime Record: 2-5-4
Record vs Interior Division: 18-9-3-4
Record vs Island & Mainland Divisions: 12-10-2-0
When the Vipers score first: 25-7-2-3
When the opponents score first: 5-12-3-1
Leading after the 1st period: 20-3-1-1
Tied after the 1st period: 7-8-3-1
Trailing after the 1st period: 3-8-1-2
Leading after the 2nd period: 25-2-2-1
Tied after the 2nd period: 3-1-3-2
Trailing after the 2nd period: 2-15-0-1
Out shooting opponents: 19-8-4-2
Out shot by opponents: 9-9-1-1
One goal games: 10-2-5-2
Goals for: 180
Goals against: 158
Standings: Finished in 2nd Place
Longest winning streak: Unbeaten in ten games (7 wins-3 ties)
Longest losing streak: Three game losing streak (Twice)
Vernon Vipers 2017-18 exhibition stats:
Games Played: 2
Wins: 1
Losses: 0
Ties: 0
Overtime Wins: 0
Overtime Losses: 1
Home Record: 0-0-0-1
Road Record: 1-0-0-0
Overtime Record: 0-1
Vernon Vipers Returning Players:
(These may not be 100% correct/Team rosters aren't fully updated)
Brett Stapley (99)
Jagger Williamson (98)
Jimmy Lambert (97)
Niko Karamanis (98)
Jesse Lansdell (98)
Michael Ufberg (97)
Shane Kelly (97)
Sol Seibel (99)
Chris Jandric (98)
Ty Taylor (99)
Ryan Brushett (98)
Simon Sagissor (97)
Brody Dale (99)
New Recruits-Committed Players:
Coleton Bilodeau (00)
Josh Prokop (00)
Connor Marritt (99)
Alex Swetlikoff (01)
Jack Judson (00)
Newly Acquired Players Involving Trades:
Keyvan Mokhtari (98)
Jordan Sandhu (99)
Finn Evans (99)
Vernon Vipers departed & traded players from last years team:
(These may not be 100% correct/Team rosters aren't fully updated)
Austin Adamson (96)
Riley Brandt (96)
Hunter Zandee (96)
Luke Gingras (98)
Steven Jandric (97)
Cooper Watson (96)
Cameron Trott (97)
Connor Clouston (96)
Darion Hanson (97)
Vernon's home record vs Prince George last year:
1-0-0-0
Vernon's road record vs Prince George last year:
1-0-0-0
Vernon's scoring leaders vs Prince George last year:
Jimmy Lambert (3-2-5)
Steven Jandric (1-3-4)
Austin Adamson (0-4-4)
Brett Stapley (1-2-3)
Michael Ufberg (0-3-3)
Cameron Trott (2-1-3)
Ryan Brushett (2-0-2)
Jagger Williamson (0-1-1)
Hunter Zandee (0-1-1)
Connor Clouston (0-1-1)
Chris Jandric (1-0-1)
Simon Sagissor (0-1-1)
Darion Hanson (1-0 Record)
Ty Taylor (1-0 Record)
Let's take a look at the Prince George Spruce Kings:
The 1-0-0-0 Prince George Spruce Kings make their first of two visits to Kal Tire Place this year. The Spruce Kings are coming off a 3-1 victory Tuesday in Grande Prairie. This is the second game of a two game road trip before wrapping up the pre-season Saturday vs the Alberta Junior Hockey League Grande Prairie Storm. The Spruce Kings will play three exhibition games, two against the Storm. The Spruce Kings open the 2017-18 regular season September 8th when they host the 2018 Royal Bank Cup Host Chilliwack Chiefs. Prince George has eight players returning from last season, finished 4th in the Mainland Division with a record of 25-27-4-2.
Prince George Spruce Kings Roster:
http://bchl.ca/stats/roster/14
Brett Mennear (25-54-79) lead the team last season in goals with twenty five and in points with seventy nine.
Prince George Spruce Kings 2016-17 final regular season stats:
Games Played: 58
Wins: 25
Losses: 27
Ties: 2
Overtime Losses: 4
Home Record: 14-11-2-2
Road Record: 11-16-2-0
Goals for: 210
Goals against: 210
Standings: Finished 4th In Mainland Division
Prince George Spruce Kings 2017-18 exhibition stats:
Games Played: 1
Wins: 1
Losses: 0
Ties: 0
Overtime Wins: 0
Overtime Losses: 0
Home Record: 0-0-0-0
Road Record: 1-0-0-0
Overtime Record: 0-0
Prince George Spruce Kings Returning Players:
Ethan De Jong (99)
Ben Poisson (99)
Jarod Hovde (97)
Kyle Johnson (98)
Chong Min Lee (99)
Ben Brar (98)
Ryan Stack (00)
Liam Watson-Brawn (99)
New Recruits-Committed Players:
No current list is available
Newly Acquired Players Involving Trades:
Chays Ruddy (97)
Nolan Welsh (99)
James Orr (99)
Nick Sutter (97)
Shawn Kennedy (99)
Evan DeBrouwer (97)
Prince George Spruce Kings departed and traded players from last years team:
Travis Schneider (98)
Brett Mennear (96)
Tanner Campbell (97)
Chong Hyun Lee (96)
Parker Colley (97)
Hunter Luhmann (97)
Ethan O'Rourke (99)
Keegan Ward (97)
Tyler Anderson (96)
Drew Lennon (98)
Adam Burnett (96)
Sam De Melo (98)
Bryan Allbee (97)
Connor Russell (96)
Tavin Grant (98)
Aris Anagnostopoulos (98)
Prince George's home record vs Vernon last year:
0-1-0-0
Prince George's road record vs Vernon last year:
0-0-0-1
Prince George's scoring leaders vs Vernon last year:
Brett Mennear (1-2-3)
Travis Schneider (0-2-2)
Tyler Anderson (0-2-2)
Parker Colley (0-3-3)
Hunter Luhmann (2-0-2)
Chong Hyun Lee (1-1-2)
Drew Lennon (0-1-1)
Tanner Campbell (1-0-1)
Sam De Melo (0-1-1)
Connor Russell (0-1-1)
Ben Brar (1-0-1)
Ethan O'Rourke (0-1-1)
Keegan Ward (1-0-1)
Tavin Grant (0-2 Record)
Hockeytube.net Presents Junior A Puckcast:
Vernon Vipers play by play broadcaster, Graham Turnbull will be hosting 'Puckcast' and online Thursday night feature that goes live at 7pm. The show will feature interviews with past and present players and coaches as well as Junior A newsmakers.
Check It out...7pm Thursdays!
http://www.1075kiss.com/junior-a-puckast/
Wednesday, August 30, 2017
Vipers Face Tough Choices:
Vipers face tough choices
The Vernon Vipers of the B.C. Hockey League have too much talent for the 23 roster spots available
Kevin Mitchell
Wed Aug 30th, 2017
Mark Ferner went for a hike early Tuesday afternoon. Foremost on his mind was how to finalize his lineup for the 56th B.C. Hockey League season.
It is very evident there are too many talented players in the Vernon Vipers’ camp for the 23 roster spots.
“Some of our young guys are pushing some veterans hard so we’re going to have some very tough decisions to make,” said Ferner, Viper head coach and director of player personnel.
The Vipers have three goalies, 17 forwards and 10 defencemen left in camp and more veterans have called Ferner requesting a place to play. Vernon hosts the Prince George Spruce Kings in exhibition action Thursday night at Kal Tire Place.
“This is the most talent I’ve seen on a team,” said fourth-year forward Jagger Williamson, an alternate captain last year. “All the young guys, (Alex) Swetlikoff, (Josh) Prokop and the list goes on, and there are still jobs to play for. It’s going to be tough. I wouldn’t want to be Mark in this situation; good luck to him. It’s gonna be a good team.”
Mike Ufberg, Shane Kelly, Chris Jandric and Sol Seibel are returnees on the back end, where Boston newcomer Michael Young has a lock for a spot. Prize prospect Jack Judson looks to be more than ready so Ferner has one or two d-men to sign.
Up front, the Vipers pretty much have six lines that can play in the league. The core group of Williamson, Jimmy Lambert, Brett Stapley, Niko Karamanis and Jesse Lansdell is safe. So are newbies Keyvan Mohktari and Jordan Sandhu, BCHL stars obtained in summer trades, and recently acquired F Finn Evans.
Returning forwards Simon Sagissor, Ryan Brushett and Brody Dale are not only battling sweet prospects Swetlikoff and Prokop, but ultra-talented rookies Coleton Bilodeau, Connor Marritt, Quinton Ong, Adam Panacci and Nick Cherkowski. Ty Taylor is the starting goalie with Conor Webb vying to be his caddy. There are, however, still more experienced net detectives hovering around the BCHL and WHL.
Young, meanwhile, connected twice on powerplay lasers from the point as the Vipers clipped the Silverbacks 4-3 in pre-season play Saturday night at the Salmon Arm Shaw Centre.
“They were absolute cannons,” said Ferner. “I don’t think the goalie moved.”
Jandric, on a 5-on-3 man advantage, and Christian Sanda, on a fray in front, had the other Viper goals. Sanda has been released.
Taylor allowed one goal in 30 minutes work, while 16-year-old Johnny Derrick allowed the other two snipes.
SNAKE BITES: The Trail Smoke Eaters visit Kal Tire Place Saturday night…Vernon opens the regular season Friday, Sept. 8 versus the Silverbacks in the Shuswap. The Vipers’ home opener is the next night…The Smokies lost 4-2 to the Wenatchee Wild, while West Kelowna Warriors iced Merritt Centennials 5-1.
Mick Gets New Role With Silverbacks:
Mick gets new role with Silverbacks
Vernon’s Troy Mick has new responsibilities with the B.C. Hockey League Salmon Arm Silverbacks.
Kevin Mitchell
Wed Aug 30th, 2017
The Salmon Arm Sports Inc group which consists of the Salmon Arm Silverbacks BCHL, Steamboat Wranglers RMJHL, Salmon Arm Elite Hockey & Power Skating School & the Maximum Edge Hockey shop have made some changes.
Vernon’s Troy Mick, who is currently the president & GM of the B.C. Hockey League Silverbacks, will now be president-GM business operations Salmon Arm Sports Inc. He will oversee all four-business operations.
Scott Atkinson, the current head coach of the Silverbacks, will now add GM & Director of player personal to his job description. Atkinson will be responsible for all hockey operations pertaining to the players, scouts, transactions and camps.
Mick, 48, began his coaching career as an assistant with the Vernon Vipers in 1995-96, runner-ups in the Royal Bank Cup nationals in Melfort, Sask. He was head coach when Vernon won the 1999 RBC in Yorkton, Sask. He later coached the Tri-City Americans and Kamloops Blazers in the WHL.
A Pittsburgh Penguins draft, Mick compiled 203 goals in four WHL seasons with Portland and Regina (1). He spent three years playing in the ECHL before numerous knee injuries forced his retirement.
Atkinson just joined the Silverbacks from the Edge School for Athletes in Calgary, where he served as head coach for the school’s hockey program since 2009.
With Atkinson behind the bench, the team from the Edge School recorded an impressive .801 winning percentage. Before coaching there, Atkinson had a successful career coaching university hockey at both the University of Calgary and Mount Royal University.
Atkinson led the Mount Royal University Cougars to six Alberta College Conference gold medals as well as two silvers and two bronzes. In addition, Mount Royal won the Canadian College Athletic Association title five times under Atkinson’s direction.
Atkinson then coached the University of Calgary Dinos men’s team to seven consecutive Canada West semifinal appearances.
Tuesday, August 29, 2017
Kal Tire Place Construction Update:
Here is a video update on the construction of the new arena being added onto Kal Tire Place. The video was taken between Apr 18 - Aug 22, 2017
https://www.vernon.ca/parks-recreation/recreation-facilities/arenas-rinks/Kal-Tire-Place-TwinIce
Monday, August 28, 2017
BCHL News & Trades:
BCHL News & Trades:
Rome Returns To Grizzlies For 2017-18 Season:
It may be sunny and 20 plus degrees but it feels like Christmas for Head Coach and GM Craig Didmon as he received the news he had been waiting for all summer. Jamie Rome has decided to come home. Well, at least back to Victoria to play for one more year. Rome, who calls his real home Calgary, was given the choice to start his college career with Western Michigan this season or defer for a year and attend the following season. Rome has decided to play one more season for the Grizzlies and the Grizzlies coaching staff couldn’t be happier. “That’s great new for our team and fans, no question. I thank Andy Murray and Western Michigan for allowing Jamie to play one more season for us. From a development stand point I think it is a great move for Jamie, and as far as our club is concerned, he is a big piece to the puzzle and will be a top player in the league this season,” commented Coach Didmon. The Grizzlies Rookie of the Year, for the 2016/17 season, scored 29 goals last season (regular season and playoffs) and will be looked upon to put up solid numbers again. “Jamie is a power forward with a great stride and as well a real nose for the net. Jamie and Lucas Clark had great chemistry and helped each other find their way in the BCHL, and this season I look for those two to be top players in the league” added Didmon.
Powell River Kings Name Carter New Goalie Coach:
The Kings would like to welcome Chris Carter as the teams new Goaltending coach for the 2017/2018 season. Carter replaces long time netminding mentor Jeff Battah, who has taken up an opportunity with the Graz 99ers in the Austrian Hockey League. Carter, who is based on Vancouver Island and also coaches with the VIU Mariners, joins the Kings after a stint with the Cowichan Valley Capitals last year. “I am both honoured and humbled to be joining the Powell River Kings. It’s a tremendous organization on so many levels. It’s such a great opportunity for me as a goaltending coach to a part of an organization dedicated to the success of its players. I’m looking forward to contributing to the success of our goaltenders and the success of this great team.” For Battah, the opportunity to cut his teeth in pro hockey was too good to pass up. During my time in Junior, I got the chance to work with a lot of Europeans that had come over to Canada” said Battah. “When the opportunity to coach in Europe came up for me it was something that was outside of my comfort zone and something I felt was a good challenge for me professionally.” Kings Head Coach and GM Kent Lewis says that while he’s excited for Battah to pursue a great opportunity, he’s a big loss to the organization. “Jeff has been a big part of our club for many years and helped develop some of the best goaltenders in the BCHL. He was great to have as a resource for our guys and we’ll miss him around the club…but we’re obviously very happy for him to have this opportunity.” On Carter joining the team, Lewis says it’s great to bring in someone with the level of experience Carter brings. “Chris has been coaching out east for many years and has continued that out in BC. Obviously Cowichan last year and then now with us this season means Chris will be able to provide quality coaching and mentoring all year to our guys. Having him on the Island means our guys will have great access to work on their game regularly throughout the season.” Carter will not only work throughout the season with Powell River King net minders, but also train and help develop local minor hockey goalies. The Kings wish Jeff all the best with his new endeavor in Austria, and would like to extend a warm welcome to Chris this season.
Centennials Training Camp Begins Monday:
Another exciting season of Merritt Centennials hockey is only days away, with the start of training camp scheduled for this coming Monday, August 21 at the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena. Between 50 and 60 skaters will descend upon our valley for the Cents’ main camp, which will run until September 1. It will include a quartet of intra-squad games and five exhibition matches against BCHL rivals. Each player attending Merritt’s training camp will be vying for one of 23 coveted positions on this year’s Cents’ squad, and the opportunity to compete in arguably the best Junior A league in North America. There are going to be a number of recognizable faces at this year’s training camp with nine returning players from the Merritt team that went 23-25-8-2 during the 2016-17 regular season — good for 56 points and fifth place in the BCHL’s Interior division — before losing out in seven games to the Penticton Vees in round two of the playoffs. The veteran group includes goaltender Jake Berger (born in 1997), defencemen Tyrell Buckley (97) and Michael Van Unen (99), as well as forwards Henry Cleghorn (97), Zach Zorn (97), Zach Court (97), Chase Bell (97), Nick Wicks (98) and Rylan Van Unen (99). Gone from last year’s Cents’ team are 20-year-old graduating players Brett Jewell (Yale), Nick Fidanza (retired), Stephan Seeger (Germany), Cade Gleekel (St. Lawrence), Mike Faulkner (Hobart College) and Aaron Murray (Concordia). Other players not expected to return or suit up for the Centennials this coming season are goaltender Colten Lancaster (traded to Alberni Valley), defencemen Zach Metsa (USHL), Zach Bleuler (Queens) and Ethan King (Lethbridge, WHL), along with forwards Tyler Ward, Zach Risteau and Michael Regush (all gone to the USHL). With a number of spots to fill on this season’s roster, Centennials’ third-year head coach and GM Joe Martin and his assistants — Matt Samson and newly-hired Brandon Shaw — have been busy this summer recruiting players from across North America.
Vancouver Island Junior Hockey Team Makes Full Face Protection Mandatory For Players:
A junior hockey team on Vancouver Island will be the first in Western Canada to make its players wear a full cage face shield instead of a half visor. Brad Tippett, coach of the Junior B North Saanich Peninsula Panthers, said the decision came about because "logic trumps tradition." "Why wouldn't we? This is about player safety," he said. The Peninsula Panthers are following the lead of 117 Ontario-based Junior A and B teams that have made cages mandatory. Cages — which are usually made out of metal — offer full face and mouth protection. Visors are made with shatter resistant plastic but only protect the upper half of the face, and even then, not very effectively, if a stick or puck gets up underneath it. Cages are mandatory at all levels of minor hockey in Canada but not in junior where graduating to a half visor is often seen as a badge of accomplishment. But Tippett says the half visor rule in junior is a recipe for injury. "The kids coming into junior now have never not played with a cage. And because of it, there's a stick management issue — they don't have to worry about their sticks being up because everyone they've ever played against has worn a cage. Then they come into a league where there isn't [cages] and their sticks are still up. And guys get hurt," he said. Tippett believes other junior teams in B.C. are poised to make cages mandatory, if only because it will reduce insurance costs. "In Ontario ... teams that go to the full cage get an insurance reduction. The majority of dental claims came from the Junior B level because they weren't wearing them." Arguments against cages have little to do with safety and a lot to do with hockey's macho image — cages are for kids, visors just look cooler. Spectators want to see a player's face. As well, players often complain that a cage impairs vision on the ice, an argument Tippett calls "hogwash." Thirty-five years removed from his own playing days, he can't help but recount the toll taken playing in the pre face- protection era. "I was cut all the time," he sad. "I lost eight teeth, I've got two screws in my jaw and had over 300 stitches in my face." The Peninsula Panthers management considered making cages mandatory last season but Tippett says they were finally pushed to do it after watching some of their players swap out their half visors for full cages, so they could play lacrosse. "In lacrosse, you're not allowed to play without one." Tippett says he's received a flood of supportive emails — including one from a dentist — since announcing the move. He thinks it's only a matter of time before most junior level leagues make cages mandatory. "This is like Jacques Plante's story. He was mocked for introducing the goalie mask, because it wasn't macho. Now, kids are mocked if their $1,000 goalie mask doesn't have a custom paint job. It's not the mask — the mask is normal now. It's the paint." "Someone from outside of hockey said to me: 'There's something to protect your players and you're not using it? Why?' They couldn't understand it."
Penticton Vees Release New Third Jerseys:
Seven Locals Looking To Compete For Bulldogs Roster Spots:
The Alberni Valley Bulldogs will begin the final stages of firming up their roster for the 2017/18 British Columbia Hockey League season when the team’s main training camp opens at Weyerhaeuser Arena on Monday, August 21st. This year’s camp will run until Thursday, August 24th when the Bulldogs will hold their annual Red vs. White Game. The inter-squad contest will feature the top-40 players from main camp and serve as the final opportunity for potential Bulldogs to impress the team’s coaching staff prior to their exhibition opener 24 hours later. The Bulldogs are thrilled that this year’s main camp will feature seven players from Port Alberni. Forwards Foster Martin, Noah Fatur, Wyatt Selva, Willie Daigneault and Jerzy Gus, plus defenceman Ezra Paddock and goaltender Jaysen MacLean, will all be stating their case to make their hometown team. Camp will open on the morning of Monday, August 21st with registration and an introductory meeting before game action kicks off at 9:00 AM. Bulldogs fans are invited to attend all on-ice sessions.
DeFazio Looking Forward To Joining Wild:
In his second year playing with the Colorado Rampage U16 team, defenseman Bryce DeFazio was named team captain and enjoyed a solid year of growth and development. He’s been drafted by teams in three different leagues, and he will arrive in Wenatchee with the rest of the hopefuls for the 2017-18 roster on August 21. Initially drafted by the WHL’s Tri-City Americans in 2014, he was then drafted by the Waterloo Blackhawks of the USHL in 2015, and the NAHL’s Minnesota Magicians selected him in 2016. He began last season in Waterloo, then closed out the year with the Magicians. The first year being away from his home in Colorado Springs was admittedly a bit of an adjustment. “It took some time getting used to”, he says. “Overall, it was a great experience and I look forward to doing it again this year.” Having experienced two different states and two different leagues gave him some solid perspective. “Everything about Wenatchee convinced me it was the right fit for me”, DeFazio reveals. “The coaching staff is exceptional and has a great reputation of developing high level players and preparing them for the next levels. Playing in the BCHL is a great opportunity and I think playing against the skilled players in this league will help raise my game.” is introduction to hockey was one that a lot of younger siblings can relate to. “I first got into hockey at the age of 4”, he reminisces. “My older brother tried to make me a goalie so he could have someone to rip pucks at in the garage. Once I was old enough to realize I had a choice, I wanted to play defense. Also, my grandmother had season tickets for the Colorado Avalanche when I was young, and I really began to fall in love with hockey watching guys like Joe Sakic, Peter Forsberg, and Rob Blake.” His goals are specific, yet open-ended. “My long-term goals are to win a championship with Wenatchee, to go on to play Division 1 college hockey, and to make a career out of playing hockey for as long as I can. Wild Head Coach / GM Bliss Littler is excited to see DeFazio blend in to his new surroundings. “He’s a big-bodied defenseman who skates well. He brings experience that will help our back end.” For the 6’4”, 200 lb. DeFazio, he has a few NHL stars he looks to for inspiration. “I really admire the character of Jonathan Toews. Fundamentally, I feel that my play is similar to 2-way defensemen like Brent Seabrook and Mattias Ekholm.”
Powell River Kings Main Camp Preview:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LM4o0MBc3gQ
Prince George-Notre Dame Trade:
The Prince George Spruce Kings have added a tall, veteran presence to their defensive line-up for the upcoming 2017-18 season. Defenceman Chays Ruddy has been acquired from the Notre Dame Hounds of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) by way of the Trenton Golden Hawks of the Ontario League (OJHL), in exchange for rights to forward Hunter Luhmann, and future considerations. The 20-year-old spent the last two seasons in Trenton, which included a trip to the 2017 RBC Cup in his hometown of Cobourg, Ontario. Spruce Kings General Manager Mike Hawes says his experience and great character will be big assets to his squad. “He was a big part of a very good team in Trenton last season that earned its way to the National Championship. He will be leaned on heavily here to provide leadership on and off the ice, and will be a big piece of our team this season.” Ruddy tallied 14 points (1G, 13A) while picking up 99 penalty minutes in 45 games with the Golden Hawks last season. He will join the team on Thursday, August 24th for training camp at the Rolling Mix Concrete Arena (RMCA).
Warriors New Owners Hope To Put Team’s Stamp On Outside Of City Arena:
New murals outside and more food choices inside will help create a better hockey atmosphere at West Kelowna Warriors games this year, city council will hear Tuesday. Council will decide whether to grant permission for new owners of the money-losing BC Hockey League team to adorn the exterior of Jim Lind Arena with the club’s logo and depictions of its star players. As well, team owners propose to take back control of the rink’s concession so more food options can be offered to fans. Different food trucks on game night are under consideration. Giving up the concession will cost the city about $5,000 a year in revenue, staff estimate. The suggested modifications to the city’s lease with Vision Sports Group should help the team draw more fans and put it on a better financial footing heading into the 2017-18 season, says Bob Kusch, municipal recreation manager. Previous team owner Mark Cheyne announced just before the start of last season’s playoffs that he was looking to sell the Warriors after years of heavy losses. The 2015-16 season alone, he said, had cost him more than $300,000 even though the Warriors won the national championship. The team’s financial losses were even greater in other years, West Kelowna council heard last fall when it cut the Warriors’ annual rink rental from $63,600 to $52,000. Attendance at Warriors games last January averaged about 840 people in the 1,500-seat arena. Although Penticton and Vernon have populations similar to West Kelowna, teams in those cities draw substantially more fans than the Warriors. The Penticton Vees have averaged 2,500 fans the past three years, and attendance at Vernon Vipers games since 2014 has averaged 1,850. In February, council voted against a request from the team to put Warriors stickers on all city-owned vehicles to better promote the club.
Wild Pre-Season Games Will Offer Unique Format:
When the Wenatchee Wild and new division rival Trail Smoke Eaters get together for preseason hockey next weekend at the Community Rink, the games will be a little different from what hockey fans are used to, as each night will feature four full periods of hockey, instead of the standard three periods. The British Columbia Hockey League mandates that teams may begin their organized preseason activities no sooner than Aug. 21, 2017. As a result, most, if not all teams have a good number of players battling for the 23 allotted roster spots. By splitting the games into four periods, each side will be able to include more players by refreshing the rosters after two periods. “It’s different, that’s for sure”, says Head Coach / GM Bliss Littler. “But both organizations agreed this is a great way to involve more players and get everyone the opportunity to compete for a spot.” He concludes with a smile, “And the fans will love it, it’s a whole extra period of free hockey!” The four-period format will be utilized on both nights, August 25-26 with the games starting at 7:00 pm. Tickets will be sold at the door only for $10 General Admission. The following weekend games against the Langley Rivermen at this time are expected to be standard format games. Those games start at 7pm on September 1 and and 2pm on September 2.
Sunday, August 27, 2017
Viper Rookies Relish Home Cooking:
Viper rookies relish home cooking
Kevin Mitchell
Sun Aug 27th, 2017
Go somewhere else and play. There is too much pressure in your hometown. The fans will be all over you.
Those are common phrases of advice young Junior A hockey prospects have been hearing since Howie Meeker was a promising defenceman.
Jagger Williamson is entering his fourth season with the BCHL Vernon Vipers and the local product has thrived on home cooking. Of course, he took some ribbing as a rookie when his mom dropped him off at the rink. Everything else has been great.
“You obviously learn to deal with it,” said the Lumby product who played Rep hockey in Vernon. “I kind of feed off it, all my friends from Lumby and Vernon come out and watch; it’s been pretty cool. I seize every moment of it and I’ve loved it.”
Jags, as he is affectionately known, is part of the Viper leadership group and he has some wisdom for the likes of goalie Conor Webb and winger Colteton Bilodeau as they make strong bids to make Mark Ferner’s roster.
“You gotta just enjoy the moment at this stage,” said Williamson, as he watched the two in the Blue-White game Wednesday night. “It’s an awesome experience. That was my goal growing up to play for my hometown city and I’m sure it was the same for them. They both look really good out there and we’ll see what happens.”
Bilodeau, 17, got in 10 games as an affiliate last year so is fairly comfortable around the 13 Viper returnees.
“It’s an honour to even be considered for this team,” said Bilodeau, a WHL Moose Jaw Warrior draft and Vernon minor grad. “There’s a lot of history here and I’m really excited to start the year.”
The 6-foot-1, 185-pounder who wants a college scholarship one day, did have other offers.
“There was interest from out of town, but growing up watching the (Viper) games, it’s tough to play anywhere else, and Mark’s a great coach.”
Bilodeau compiled 58 points and 92 penalty minutes in 37 games with the Major Midget Okanagan Rockets a year ago. The Grade 12 VSS student and big fan of Chicago forward Jonathan Toews, will likely start the season on Vernon’s fourth line.
“I can bring a little bit of everything. I see myself as a two-way player and a versatile player. Whatever Mark wants me to do, I’ll be ready.”
Webb, 18, posted a 3.26 GAA with the Junior B North Okanagan Knights last year and was a key guy with the Junior B Vernon Tigers lacrosse team this season. He’s very laid back and doesn’t have an issue with playing in his hometown.
“I don’t think so,” said Webb, when asked if there was extra stress as a local. “I’m fine with it. You just go out and play every game.”
Blessed with a fast glove and technical skills, Webb is in great shape after running four times a week with the Tigers. The Fulton grad who likes Tuukka Task of the Bruins, is loving the harder shots from Junior A snipers.
“I actually think it’s easier. There’s no wobble on the puck, it just comes straight in, believe it or not.”
Ferner knows all about hometown Junior hockey. He enjoyed home cooking for three years but knows there are negatives and positives that come with the situation.
“It can be tough. I went through it in Kamloops. It’s not easy, it really isn’t. It’s a great thing to have, and maybe the toughest thing is depending on how the team does because they’re here all year with lots of family and friends. So it can be an advantage and a disadvantage.”
Meanwhile, Marcus Mitchell scored on the second shot of double overtime as the Salmon Arm Silverbacks shaded the Vipers 2-1 in exhibition action Friday night at Kal Tire Place.
Defenceman Akito Hirose’s point shot in three-on-three play was stopped by Viper goalie Conor Webb, but Mitchell quickly knocked in the rebound just 56 seconds into the extra session before 600 B.C. Hockey League fans. Rookie Hudson Schandor, 16, drew the secondary assist.
Schandor, who rang up 47 points in 40 Major Midget games with the Vancouver Northwest Giants a last year, fooled Viper netminder Ty Taylor with a shot from the corner as the Silverbacks opened the scoring at 16:58 of the first period. Mitchell earned the helper.
Vernon minor hockey product Nicholas Cherkowski equalized early in the third period with a wrister from the slot past fifth-year veteran Bo Didur. Ryan Brushett and d-man Jack Judson assisted. Didur had seconds earlier made a sprawling stop off TJ Sagissor.
The Vipers outshot the Silverbacks 44-22, including a 14-5 margin in the third period. Webb, a Vernon net detective who played Junior B in Armstrong last year, took over from Taylor midway through the second and finished with eight saves.
Webb made a nice stop on Schandor in the four-on-four OT, the only scoring chance by either team. His finest save came with 4:53 to play in regulation when he rolled on his back to stone Nick Unruh in tight.
Cherkowski later enjoyed another Grade A chance after a nifty pass from the point by d-man Mitch Andres.
Roadrunner Keyvan Mohktari flashed his wheels down the left flank midway through the third period, cutting in tight and just failing to beat Didur short side.
Mohktari played on a line with Jordan Sandhu and Simon Saggisor. Mohktari and Sandhu landed in Vernon in offseason deals with Victoria Grizzlies and Alberni Valley Bulldogs respectively.
Exhibition: Vernon 4 Salmon Arm 3
I have had season tickets for the past 28 years and been following Junior hockey in Vernon for well over thirty years. Ive missed only three home games since 1998-99 season. 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 exhibition game as Vernon defeated Salmon Arm 4-3 in front of a small crowd at the Shaw Centre.
Starting Goaltenders:
Vernon: Ty Taylor
Salmon Arm: Nic Tallarico
1st Period: The Silverbacks jumped on the Vipers early, carried the play almost from the drop of the puck before getting some good pressure-zone time in the offensive zone. For a second night both teams were laying the body early. The Backs would get the games first quality chance of the night. Justin Wilson with a quick shot from the high slot about three and a half minutes in forced Ty Taylor to make difficult save up high before being quick, stopping the rebound on the second chance at the side of the net. Two minutes later Taylor had to be sharp making a quick pad save off Riley Hayles point shot. About a minute later Salmon Arm would get the games first powerplay, but with just one shot on the man advantage the Silverbacks couldn't convert. Just as the penalty expired on a delayed penalty Trevor Adams setup Grayson Constable in the high slot who's shot got through traffic and beat Vipers starting goaltender Ty Taylor who looked to be screened on the play, giving Salmon Arm a 1-0 lead at 8:33 Adams & Stephon Perreault drew the assists. A minor delay after the goal, with the two referee's and linesmen talking things over with the Vipers bench and the time keepers before sending Sol Seibel to the box. Seibel was the player that was given the penalty on the play-Silverbacks goal, due to a double minor for high sticking, the first two minutes comes off while Seibel still has to sit for two minutes, sending SA back to the powerplay. The Backs with a few looks didn't really generate much for offence on the PP as Vernon would kill off the minor. The Snakes playing most of the first half in their own end, needed eleven minutes to record their first shot on goal as it was all Salmon Arm. The Backs outshooting the Vipers 9-1 at this point. With about six minutes left the Vipers come close to putting the puck in their own goal. The Backs dump the puck into the Vernon zone, the lone Viper defenceman retrieving the puck, tried passing the puck back to Ty Taylor who wasn't ready for the puck, was forced to stumble making an awkward save as the two team mates kinda ran into each other, as the puck took a funny bounce somehow stayed out of the net on a lucky play. Shortly after Michael Young caught a Silverbacks player with a high stick, this turned into a big scrum as a Salmon Arm player rushed towards Young, before everyone got involved. Tempers heated up in a hurry as lots of pushing and shoving going on in the corner before Sol Seibel & Jesse Lansdell got mixed up with Josh Latta & Austin Chorney as several punches were thrown. The scrum was eventually broken up with the Backs getting their third powerplay of the period. Moving the puck around Ty Taylor making his second straight start of the pre-season made some big stops, keeping his team in the contest. The Snakes would get some strong goaltending and kill off the minor. Jesse Lansdell took a run at Mitch Stapley, the older brother of Vipers forward Brett Stapley was slow leaving the ice, needed some attention from the trainer, looked to take a cut to his head, went down the tunnel for repairs. Stapley looked to be ok would return to the game in the 2nd period. In the dying seconds the Vipers sprung veteran Jimmy Lambert for the breakaway was stopped in close by Nic Tallarico who made a huge blocker save with just nine seconds remaining. It was 1-0 Salmon Arm after 20 minutes of play. The Silverbacks with a strong start, jumped on the Snakes early and often dominated the play. Salmon Arm was by far the better of the two teams, controlled and carried the play for most of the opening frame. SA had some good looks-opportunities, only managed one goal in a period they owned. Vernon was lucky they were only down a goal heading into the 2nd period. The Vipers were out played most of if not the entire 1st period. Vernon struggled offensively, played most of the frame in their own end. Both teams were hitting-being physical but the Vipers were just a little too aggressive, took way too many undisciplined penalties. A very chippy period as the Vipers had troubles keeping their sticks down. Ty Taylor kept the Vipers in the game, or Salmon Arm could have easily been up three or four goals. Salmon Arm outshot Vernon 21-5.
2nd Period: The Snakes took control of the play early, generated some good pressure in the opening few minutes. Alex Swetlikoff couldn't redirect a pass in front, looked to have an open cage on a missed opportunity early. Jagger Williamson and Niko Karamanis both with great looks at the net, missed the net. The Vipers with several shots early, had troubles hitting the net before getting an early powerplay, their first of the night. Vernon didn't waist time, Jimmy Lambert setup Michael Young who's flutter shot from the blueline had eyes, finding its way to the back of the goal, tying the game 1-1 at 3:18 on a shot I don't think Silverbacks starting goaltender Nic Tallarico saw. Lambert & Alex Swetlikoff collected the helpers. The Snakes went back to the powerplay, just over three minutes later. But shorthanded Rhett Kingston used his speed come down the left wing, before driving to the net was denied by Ty Taylor. The Backs would kill off the penalty. Then both teams went several minutes going back and fourth but neither team couldn't generate any offence. Both teams went a good five minutes or longer with no shots on goal. The play become a little sluggish before getting back to tempo. The Snakes would switch goaltenders just before the halfway mark. Johnny Derrick replaced Ty Taylor who gave up one goal on twenty six Salmon Arm shots. On the second shift, Derrick had troubles handling a shot from well out, as the shot-puck looked to handcuff the young goaltender, just about squeezed through his legs and into the back of the net. Derrick looked a little shaky early on. Just past the midway mark the Vipers would get their third powerplay of the period. Salmon Arm with a good penalty kill, killed off the minor. The Snakes come close to catching a break, after Silverbacks starting goaltender Nic Tallarico come out to play the puck, fired the puck up ice where a Viper was in position but couldn't convert on the giveaway. Late in the middle frame new recruit Connor Marritt's shot was stopped by Nic Tallarcio with Christian Sanda going hard to the net. Sanda on his bottom would somehow swipe at the loose puck that was lying in the crease, banged home the rebound from his bottom, giving Vernon a 2-1 lead at 16:50 Marritt and Cale Cripps picked up the assists. Tallacrico looked to have lost sight of the puck, after making the initial save. On the following play the Vipers would lose Shane Kelly for the remainder of the period and half of the 3rd, after taking a checking to the head penalty (automatic two minute minor and a ten minute misconduct) after another minor scrum in front of the Viper goal. Salmon Arm with a late powerplay, couldn't concert with the man advantage. It was 2-1 Vernon after 40 minutes of play. The Vipers with a much better effort and performance after a horrendous opening period. Vernon with good pressure early, had several quality looks-chances couldn't capitalize, before tying the game early on the man advantage. The Vipers settled down a little this period, didn't seem to be overly aggressive as much as the opening period. I thought the Snakes were the better of the two teams for most of the first half before both teams, still playing well, neither team could muster much for offence-opportunities. Both teams had some good looks-chances but I thought Vernon had a bit of an edge in overall play. The Silverbacks got into a little penalty trouble in the first half, giving the Vipers three powerplays.The Backs didn't have as much offensive zone time, were checked well only managing a select few scoring chances. Vernon outshot Salmon Arm 12-9.
3rd Period: The Vipers would get an early powerplay, had good pressure early, had some looks. Nik Tallarico made two saves as the Silverbacks would kill off the minor. Shortly after Chris Jandric made a huge defensive play, breaking up a Salmon Arm attack. Minutes later the Snakes would jump back on the PP and capitalize. Michael Young's point shot found the back of the net, giving Vernon a 3-1 lead at 7:23 Chris Jandric & Jagger Williamson with the helpers. But minutes later SA would get to within a goal. Trevor Adam's shot from the corner somehow found its way into the back of the goal. Adam's shot looked to go in and off Johnny Derrick from a bad angle, cutting Vernon's lead to 3-2 at 10:43 Adam's goal was unassisted. From here on in Vernon's defence was solid, did a great job at shutting down the Silverback's offence. The Snakes had a great opportunity to re-take a two goal lead after Adam Panacci setup Quinton Ong on a three on one rush, before being robbed by Nic Tallarico who come across the blue paint to make a huge pad-leg save, keeping this a one goal game. Shortly after Tallarico went behind his goal to play the puck, got tangled up with a Viper fore checker who slightly bumped the SA goaltender, with no call on the play Tallarico lost his cool, charged at the Vernon forward, taking him to the ice as Austin Chorney jumped in. Chorney and Tallarico were both on top of the Snakes forward, ended up giving the Vipers a late powerplay. On the man advantage, Chris Jandric's point shot beat Tallarico giving Vernon a 4-2 lead at 16:31 Alex Swetlikoff and Jimmy Lambert picked up the assists. Salmon Arm would try going for a late push, but had troubles getting any real sustained pressure. The Backs would eventually get Nic Tallarico to the bench for the extra attacker with about 1:50 to go, SA would move the puck around before Riley Hayles spotted Trevor Adams in front, beat Johnny Derrick cutting the Vernon lead to 4-3 at 19:33 Hayles with the lone helper. Salmon Arm would get Tallarico back to the bench for the extra attacker. The Snakes would get the puck in deep, before Jimmy Lambert showing good hustle, just missed the open cage, couldn't get full control of the puck at the side of the net. The Vipers would play very well defensively to preserve the win and hold onto the 4-3 victory. The Vipers played very well in the final frame, especially defensively. The Snakes defence shutdown the Silverbacks offence, even limited the Backs to just one shot for a good six to seven minutes. I thought the Snakes really used their speed at times to open up the ice in the 3rd, generating a few odd man rushes. Mark Ferner shortened his bench in the 3rd, going with more veterans over the youngsters. Vernon battled and played hard down the stretch, got the huge 3rd goal to grab that two goal lead and never looked back. SA also played hard, couldn't seem to generate any real flow-offence. They had a few looks-opportunities but not a lot of real sustained pressure. I thought for a second straight period the Snakes once again had a slight edge in play. Sure at times the play was back and fourth and the Silverbacks managed some chances but overall I thought Vernon was just a bit better in the final twenty minutes. Vernon outshot Salmon Arm 10-9.
Top Player's: (Vernon)
Ty Taylor (25 saves) Started his second straight game, played half the night before being replaced by Johnny Derrick. Taylor had to be sharp saw a lot of rubber in that opening period, was forced into making some big stops, keeping his team in the game.
Michael Young (2 goals) Made his pre-season debut scored twice, played very well on the Viper blueline. Young looked very strong at both ends of the rink, was good defensively but also likes to get involved in the scoring.
Wyatt Light I thought looked pretty good at times in the Vipers intersquad game Wednesday, made his pre-season debut in the victory tonight, played hard, showed a lot of hustle and determination. One of the smaller kids on the roster, plays big, wasn't afraid to lay the body, get involved in the play. Really worked hard and competed.
Jesse Lansdell Played well at times, looked good on different shifts through out the game.
Jimmy Lambert seemed to get going and pick up his game as the game went along. Was denied on a breakaway in the dying seconds of the opening frame, slowly started coming on midway through the 2nd period, come on in the 3rd. Created/generated a few looks-opportunities.
Chris Jandric (1 goal) Here's another kid who didn't do much in the 1st but seemed to get better as the game carried on. I really liked Jandric's game in the 3rd. I thought he really stepped up his defensive play in the final frame, also jumped up into the rush-play offensively. Scored the game winner on the powerplay.
Hayden Dick Was an affiliated "AP" player with the Snakes last season, didn't see a lot of ice time but when he did, I thought he played fairly well. Another youngster that worked-played hard with his opportunities.
Game Thought's: (Vernon)
The Vipers didn't get off to the start they wanted, were badly outplayed in the 1st were very lucky to only be down a goal heading into the middle frame. The Snakes playing a little too aggressive and with a lot of emotion, got a little carried away, taking some undisciplined penalties in that 1st period. The Vipers played most of if not the entire 1st in their own end. Give Vernon credit, they re-grouped and played much much better in the 2nd and 3rd periods. Played with more composure, seemed to settle down and not be so aggressive after the whistle. After the horrendous 1st period, overall I thought the Snakes played very well for most of the 2nd and 3rd periods. I really liked the Snakes defensive play in the 2nd and 3rd periods, limiting Salmon Arm to just nine shots each period after giving up twenty one in the 1st. At one point the Vipers held Salmon Arm to just one shot for a good six to seven minutes in the 3rd period. Vernon didn't have as many quality chances tonight, compared to last night, I thought looked a little more sharp-played with a little more chemistry Friday night. Shane Kelly played with an edge, had a mean streak in him tonight. Mitch Andres who looked so good in training camp, doesn't stand out as much during the pre-season. Johnny Derrick who also played well-looked sharp in the Vipers inter squad game, looked shaky at times tonight. This was a good road game-character win for the boys, especially the rookies playing their first exhibition game on the road, beating a team that just beat you the night before. The Vipers were wearing their old two toned blue road jerseys they once wore a few seasons back. The Snakes had been wearing the red and navy blue jerseys away from home the past two seasons. A decent turnout of Viper fans in attendance tonight.
Top Player's: (Salmon Arm)
Justin Wilson I thought looked good at times.
Trevor Adams (2 goals & 1 assist) Was one of if not the best player for the Backs. Scored twice in the 3rd to get Salmon Arm to within a goal, was very dangerous at times with the puck. A good skater, was all over the ice in the loss.
Trey Thomas Not the biggest kid, but played hard. Really battled/competed and earned his ice time. Was impressed with his play tonight.
Rhett Kingston Was another kid who had a strong game for the Silverbacks. Created/generated several quality chances for the Backs, was involved in the play, hard to knock off the puck.
Riley Hayles (1 assist) I thought was one of the better Salmon Arm d-men. Was getting pucks to the net, played well at both ends of the rink.
Game Thought's: (Salmon Arm)
After a big 2-1 double overtime win in Vernon last night, SA seemed to build off the win, jumping on the Snakes early and often. The Silverbacks with a great start, were very good with and without the puck. Laying the body, had a ton of pressure, created/generated several good opportunities, racked up twenty one shots on Ty Taylor, but only managed one goal in a 1st period they dominated. The Backs needed that second goal and put the Vipers away when they had the opportunity. I thought Salmon Arm played well at times in the 2nd and 3rd didn't generate as many scoring chances as they did in the opening twenty minutes. I thought the Silverbacks didn't have the same tempo they played with in the 1st. SA was just a step behind Vernon at times. I thought Salmon Arm did a great job at shutting down the Viper offence in the 1st clogged up the neutral zone, looked to have trouble with Vernon's speed in the following two periods. The Silverbacks went several minutes in both the 2nd and 3rd periods without getting a single shot. Johnny Derrick looked a little shaky early, if the Backs had tried firing more rubber towards the youngster, maybe try and get some bodies in and around the Viper crease, they could have popped a few in. I think this was a missed opportunity. Take advantage of a young-inexperienced goaltender. Overall a very feisty/chippy game with lots of hitting and several scrums after the whistle. Both teams took several undisciplined penalties. They didn't announce the attendance but I would guess around 400 people were at tonight's game. These two teams will open the regular season with a home & home series starting September 8th in Salmon Arm.
Scratches:
No scratches were announced
I counted fifteen Vipers-players sitting in the stands.
Salmon Arm:
No Scratches were announced
I counted seven Silverbacks-players sitting in the stands
Three Stars:
1st Star: Trevor Adams (2 goals & 1 assist)
2ns Star: Michael Young (2 goals)
3rd Star: Ty Taylor (25 saves)
Game Summary-Boxscore
The league website doesn't give any stats during pre-season games.
Here are both teams rosters-lineup
Vernon:
Ty Taylor G (99)
Johnny Derrick G (01)
Michael Young D (98)
Mitch Andres D (98)
Cale Cripps D (99)
Sol Seibel D (99)
Brett Stapley F (99)
Alex Swetlikoff F (01)
Jagger Williamson F (98)
Connor Marritt F (99)
Wyatt Light F (98)
Adam Panacci F (99)
Christian Sanda F (98)
Niko Karamanis F (98)
Jesse Lansdell F (98)
Jimmy Lambert F (97)
Chris Jandric D (98)
Shane Kelly D (97)
Hayden Dick F (99)
Quinton Ong F (99)
Salmon Arm:
Nic Tallarico G (98)
Bo Didur G (97)
Julian Timba D (98)
Stephon Perreault D (98)
Austin Chorney D (00)
Max Wutzke D (99)
Mitch Stapley D (97)
Jonathan Krahn F (01)
Grayson Constable F (98)
Justin Wilson F (98)
Tanner Campbell F (97)
Connor Sundquist F (97)
Trevor Adams F (99)
Trey Thomas F (99)
Josh Latta F (98)
Aidan Casey F (98)
Rhett Kingston F (97)
Riley Hayles D (98)
Hudson Schandor F (00)
Marcus Mitchell F (98)
I was at tonight's Vipers-Silverbacks exhibition game as Vernon defeated Salmon Arm 4-3 in front of a small crowd at the Shaw Centre.
Starting Goaltenders:
Vernon: Ty Taylor
Salmon Arm: Nic Tallarico
1st Period: The Silverbacks jumped on the Vipers early, carried the play almost from the drop of the puck before getting some good pressure-zone time in the offensive zone. For a second night both teams were laying the body early. The Backs would get the games first quality chance of the night. Justin Wilson with a quick shot from the high slot about three and a half minutes in forced Ty Taylor to make difficult save up high before being quick, stopping the rebound on the second chance at the side of the net. Two minutes later Taylor had to be sharp making a quick pad save off Riley Hayles point shot. About a minute later Salmon Arm would get the games first powerplay, but with just one shot on the man advantage the Silverbacks couldn't convert. Just as the penalty expired on a delayed penalty Trevor Adams setup Grayson Constable in the high slot who's shot got through traffic and beat Vipers starting goaltender Ty Taylor who looked to be screened on the play, giving Salmon Arm a 1-0 lead at 8:33 Adams & Stephon Perreault drew the assists. A minor delay after the goal, with the two referee's and linesmen talking things over with the Vipers bench and the time keepers before sending Sol Seibel to the box. Seibel was the player that was given the penalty on the play-Silverbacks goal, due to a double minor for high sticking, the first two minutes comes off while Seibel still has to sit for two minutes, sending SA back to the powerplay. The Backs with a few looks didn't really generate much for offence on the PP as Vernon would kill off the minor. The Snakes playing most of the first half in their own end, needed eleven minutes to record their first shot on goal as it was all Salmon Arm. The Backs outshooting the Vipers 9-1 at this point. With about six minutes left the Vipers come close to putting the puck in their own goal. The Backs dump the puck into the Vernon zone, the lone Viper defenceman retrieving the puck, tried passing the puck back to Ty Taylor who wasn't ready for the puck, was forced to stumble making an awkward save as the two team mates kinda ran into each other, as the puck took a funny bounce somehow stayed out of the net on a lucky play. Shortly after Michael Young caught a Silverbacks player with a high stick, this turned into a big scrum as a Salmon Arm player rushed towards Young, before everyone got involved. Tempers heated up in a hurry as lots of pushing and shoving going on in the corner before Sol Seibel & Jesse Lansdell got mixed up with Josh Latta & Austin Chorney as several punches were thrown. The scrum was eventually broken up with the Backs getting their third powerplay of the period. Moving the puck around Ty Taylor making his second straight start of the pre-season made some big stops, keeping his team in the contest. The Snakes would get some strong goaltending and kill off the minor. Jesse Lansdell took a run at Mitch Stapley, the older brother of Vipers forward Brett Stapley was slow leaving the ice, needed some attention from the trainer, looked to take a cut to his head, went down the tunnel for repairs. Stapley looked to be ok would return to the game in the 2nd period. In the dying seconds the Vipers sprung veteran Jimmy Lambert for the breakaway was stopped in close by Nic Tallarico who made a huge blocker save with just nine seconds remaining. It was 1-0 Salmon Arm after 20 minutes of play. The Silverbacks with a strong start, jumped on the Snakes early and often dominated the play. Salmon Arm was by far the better of the two teams, controlled and carried the play for most of the opening frame. SA had some good looks-opportunities, only managed one goal in a period they owned. Vernon was lucky they were only down a goal heading into the 2nd period. The Vipers were out played most of if not the entire 1st period. Vernon struggled offensively, played most of the frame in their own end. Both teams were hitting-being physical but the Vipers were just a little too aggressive, took way too many undisciplined penalties. A very chippy period as the Vipers had troubles keeping their sticks down. Ty Taylor kept the Vipers in the game, or Salmon Arm could have easily been up three or four goals. Salmon Arm outshot Vernon 21-5.
2nd Period: The Snakes took control of the play early, generated some good pressure in the opening few minutes. Alex Swetlikoff couldn't redirect a pass in front, looked to have an open cage on a missed opportunity early. Jagger Williamson and Niko Karamanis both with great looks at the net, missed the net. The Vipers with several shots early, had troubles hitting the net before getting an early powerplay, their first of the night. Vernon didn't waist time, Jimmy Lambert setup Michael Young who's flutter shot from the blueline had eyes, finding its way to the back of the goal, tying the game 1-1 at 3:18 on a shot I don't think Silverbacks starting goaltender Nic Tallarico saw. Lambert & Alex Swetlikoff collected the helpers. The Snakes went back to the powerplay, just over three minutes later. But shorthanded Rhett Kingston used his speed come down the left wing, before driving to the net was denied by Ty Taylor. The Backs would kill off the penalty. Then both teams went several minutes going back and fourth but neither team couldn't generate any offence. Both teams went a good five minutes or longer with no shots on goal. The play become a little sluggish before getting back to tempo. The Snakes would switch goaltenders just before the halfway mark. Johnny Derrick replaced Ty Taylor who gave up one goal on twenty six Salmon Arm shots. On the second shift, Derrick had troubles handling a shot from well out, as the shot-puck looked to handcuff the young goaltender, just about squeezed through his legs and into the back of the net. Derrick looked a little shaky early on. Just past the midway mark the Vipers would get their third powerplay of the period. Salmon Arm with a good penalty kill, killed off the minor. The Snakes come close to catching a break, after Silverbacks starting goaltender Nic Tallarico come out to play the puck, fired the puck up ice where a Viper was in position but couldn't convert on the giveaway. Late in the middle frame new recruit Connor Marritt's shot was stopped by Nic Tallarcio with Christian Sanda going hard to the net. Sanda on his bottom would somehow swipe at the loose puck that was lying in the crease, banged home the rebound from his bottom, giving Vernon a 2-1 lead at 16:50 Marritt and Cale Cripps picked up the assists. Tallacrico looked to have lost sight of the puck, after making the initial save. On the following play the Vipers would lose Shane Kelly for the remainder of the period and half of the 3rd, after taking a checking to the head penalty (automatic two minute minor and a ten minute misconduct) after another minor scrum in front of the Viper goal. Salmon Arm with a late powerplay, couldn't concert with the man advantage. It was 2-1 Vernon after 40 minutes of play. The Vipers with a much better effort and performance after a horrendous opening period. Vernon with good pressure early, had several quality looks-chances couldn't capitalize, before tying the game early on the man advantage. The Vipers settled down a little this period, didn't seem to be overly aggressive as much as the opening period. I thought the Snakes were the better of the two teams for most of the first half before both teams, still playing well, neither team could muster much for offence-opportunities. Both teams had some good looks-chances but I thought Vernon had a bit of an edge in overall play. The Silverbacks got into a little penalty trouble in the first half, giving the Vipers three powerplays.The Backs didn't have as much offensive zone time, were checked well only managing a select few scoring chances. Vernon outshot Salmon Arm 12-9.
3rd Period: The Vipers would get an early powerplay, had good pressure early, had some looks. Nik Tallarico made two saves as the Silverbacks would kill off the minor. Shortly after Chris Jandric made a huge defensive play, breaking up a Salmon Arm attack. Minutes later the Snakes would jump back on the PP and capitalize. Michael Young's point shot found the back of the net, giving Vernon a 3-1 lead at 7:23 Chris Jandric & Jagger Williamson with the helpers. But minutes later SA would get to within a goal. Trevor Adam's shot from the corner somehow found its way into the back of the goal. Adam's shot looked to go in and off Johnny Derrick from a bad angle, cutting Vernon's lead to 3-2 at 10:43 Adam's goal was unassisted. From here on in Vernon's defence was solid, did a great job at shutting down the Silverback's offence. The Snakes had a great opportunity to re-take a two goal lead after Adam Panacci setup Quinton Ong on a three on one rush, before being robbed by Nic Tallarico who come across the blue paint to make a huge pad-leg save, keeping this a one goal game. Shortly after Tallarico went behind his goal to play the puck, got tangled up with a Viper fore checker who slightly bumped the SA goaltender, with no call on the play Tallarico lost his cool, charged at the Vernon forward, taking him to the ice as Austin Chorney jumped in. Chorney and Tallarico were both on top of the Snakes forward, ended up giving the Vipers a late powerplay. On the man advantage, Chris Jandric's point shot beat Tallarico giving Vernon a 4-2 lead at 16:31 Alex Swetlikoff and Jimmy Lambert picked up the assists. Salmon Arm would try going for a late push, but had troubles getting any real sustained pressure. The Backs would eventually get Nic Tallarico to the bench for the extra attacker with about 1:50 to go, SA would move the puck around before Riley Hayles spotted Trevor Adams in front, beat Johnny Derrick cutting the Vernon lead to 4-3 at 19:33 Hayles with the lone helper. Salmon Arm would get Tallarico back to the bench for the extra attacker. The Snakes would get the puck in deep, before Jimmy Lambert showing good hustle, just missed the open cage, couldn't get full control of the puck at the side of the net. The Vipers would play very well defensively to preserve the win and hold onto the 4-3 victory. The Vipers played very well in the final frame, especially defensively. The Snakes defence shutdown the Silverbacks offence, even limited the Backs to just one shot for a good six to seven minutes. I thought the Snakes really used their speed at times to open up the ice in the 3rd, generating a few odd man rushes. Mark Ferner shortened his bench in the 3rd, going with more veterans over the youngsters. Vernon battled and played hard down the stretch, got the huge 3rd goal to grab that two goal lead and never looked back. SA also played hard, couldn't seem to generate any real flow-offence. They had a few looks-opportunities but not a lot of real sustained pressure. I thought for a second straight period the Snakes once again had a slight edge in play. Sure at times the play was back and fourth and the Silverbacks managed some chances but overall I thought Vernon was just a bit better in the final twenty minutes. Vernon outshot Salmon Arm 10-9.
Top Player's: (Vernon)
Ty Taylor (25 saves) Started his second straight game, played half the night before being replaced by Johnny Derrick. Taylor had to be sharp saw a lot of rubber in that opening period, was forced into making some big stops, keeping his team in the game.
Michael Young (2 goals) Made his pre-season debut scored twice, played very well on the Viper blueline. Young looked very strong at both ends of the rink, was good defensively but also likes to get involved in the scoring.
Wyatt Light I thought looked pretty good at times in the Vipers intersquad game Wednesday, made his pre-season debut in the victory tonight, played hard, showed a lot of hustle and determination. One of the smaller kids on the roster, plays big, wasn't afraid to lay the body, get involved in the play. Really worked hard and competed.
Jesse Lansdell Played well at times, looked good on different shifts through out the game.
Jimmy Lambert seemed to get going and pick up his game as the game went along. Was denied on a breakaway in the dying seconds of the opening frame, slowly started coming on midway through the 2nd period, come on in the 3rd. Created/generated a few looks-opportunities.
Chris Jandric (1 goal) Here's another kid who didn't do much in the 1st but seemed to get better as the game carried on. I really liked Jandric's game in the 3rd. I thought he really stepped up his defensive play in the final frame, also jumped up into the rush-play offensively. Scored the game winner on the powerplay.
Hayden Dick Was an affiliated "AP" player with the Snakes last season, didn't see a lot of ice time but when he did, I thought he played fairly well. Another youngster that worked-played hard with his opportunities.
Game Thought's: (Vernon)
The Vipers didn't get off to the start they wanted, were badly outplayed in the 1st were very lucky to only be down a goal heading into the middle frame. The Snakes playing a little too aggressive and with a lot of emotion, got a little carried away, taking some undisciplined penalties in that 1st period. The Vipers played most of if not the entire 1st in their own end. Give Vernon credit, they re-grouped and played much much better in the 2nd and 3rd periods. Played with more composure, seemed to settle down and not be so aggressive after the whistle. After the horrendous 1st period, overall I thought the Snakes played very well for most of the 2nd and 3rd periods. I really liked the Snakes defensive play in the 2nd and 3rd periods, limiting Salmon Arm to just nine shots each period after giving up twenty one in the 1st. At one point the Vipers held Salmon Arm to just one shot for a good six to seven minutes in the 3rd period. Vernon didn't have as many quality chances tonight, compared to last night, I thought looked a little more sharp-played with a little more chemistry Friday night. Shane Kelly played with an edge, had a mean streak in him tonight. Mitch Andres who looked so good in training camp, doesn't stand out as much during the pre-season. Johnny Derrick who also played well-looked sharp in the Vipers inter squad game, looked shaky at times tonight. This was a good road game-character win for the boys, especially the rookies playing their first exhibition game on the road, beating a team that just beat you the night before. The Vipers were wearing their old two toned blue road jerseys they once wore a few seasons back. The Snakes had been wearing the red and navy blue jerseys away from home the past two seasons. A decent turnout of Viper fans in attendance tonight.
Top Player's: (Salmon Arm)
Justin Wilson I thought looked good at times.
Trevor Adams (2 goals & 1 assist) Was one of if not the best player for the Backs. Scored twice in the 3rd to get Salmon Arm to within a goal, was very dangerous at times with the puck. A good skater, was all over the ice in the loss.
Trey Thomas Not the biggest kid, but played hard. Really battled/competed and earned his ice time. Was impressed with his play tonight.
Rhett Kingston Was another kid who had a strong game for the Silverbacks. Created/generated several quality chances for the Backs, was involved in the play, hard to knock off the puck.
Riley Hayles (1 assist) I thought was one of the better Salmon Arm d-men. Was getting pucks to the net, played well at both ends of the rink.
Game Thought's: (Salmon Arm)
After a big 2-1 double overtime win in Vernon last night, SA seemed to build off the win, jumping on the Snakes early and often. The Silverbacks with a great start, were very good with and without the puck. Laying the body, had a ton of pressure, created/generated several good opportunities, racked up twenty one shots on Ty Taylor, but only managed one goal in a 1st period they dominated. The Backs needed that second goal and put the Vipers away when they had the opportunity. I thought Salmon Arm played well at times in the 2nd and 3rd didn't generate as many scoring chances as they did in the opening twenty minutes. I thought the Silverbacks didn't have the same tempo they played with in the 1st. SA was just a step behind Vernon at times. I thought Salmon Arm did a great job at shutting down the Viper offence in the 1st clogged up the neutral zone, looked to have trouble with Vernon's speed in the following two periods. The Silverbacks went several minutes in both the 2nd and 3rd periods without getting a single shot. Johnny Derrick looked a little shaky early, if the Backs had tried firing more rubber towards the youngster, maybe try and get some bodies in and around the Viper crease, they could have popped a few in. I think this was a missed opportunity. Take advantage of a young-inexperienced goaltender. Overall a very feisty/chippy game with lots of hitting and several scrums after the whistle. Both teams took several undisciplined penalties. They didn't announce the attendance but I would guess around 400 people were at tonight's game. These two teams will open the regular season with a home & home series starting September 8th in Salmon Arm.
Scratches:
No scratches were announced
I counted fifteen Vipers-players sitting in the stands.
Salmon Arm:
No Scratches were announced
I counted seven Silverbacks-players sitting in the stands
Three Stars:
1st Star: Trevor Adams (2 goals & 1 assist)
2ns Star: Michael Young (2 goals)
3rd Star: Ty Taylor (25 saves)
Game Summary-Boxscore
The league website doesn't give any stats during pre-season games.
Here are both teams rosters-lineup
Vernon:
Ty Taylor G (99)
Johnny Derrick G (01)
Michael Young D (98)
Mitch Andres D (98)
Cale Cripps D (99)
Sol Seibel D (99)
Brett Stapley F (99)
Alex Swetlikoff F (01)
Jagger Williamson F (98)
Connor Marritt F (99)
Wyatt Light F (98)
Adam Panacci F (99)
Christian Sanda F (98)
Niko Karamanis F (98)
Jesse Lansdell F (98)
Jimmy Lambert F (97)
Chris Jandric D (98)
Shane Kelly D (97)
Hayden Dick F (99)
Quinton Ong F (99)
Salmon Arm:
Nic Tallarico G (98)
Bo Didur G (97)
Julian Timba D (98)
Stephon Perreault D (98)
Austin Chorney D (00)
Max Wutzke D (99)
Mitch Stapley D (97)
Jonathan Krahn F (01)
Grayson Constable F (98)
Justin Wilson F (98)
Tanner Campbell F (97)
Connor Sundquist F (97)
Trevor Adams F (99)
Trey Thomas F (99)
Josh Latta F (98)
Aidan Casey F (98)
Rhett Kingston F (97)
Riley Hayles D (98)
Hudson Schandor F (00)
Marcus Mitchell F (98)
Saturday, August 26, 2017
Game Preview: Exhibition: Vernon @ Salmon Arm:
Vernon (0-0-0-1) @ Salmon Arm (1-1-0-0) 7pmTonight is the second and final pre-season meeting between the Vernon Vipers & Salmon Arm Silverbacks. The Vipers won last year's regular season series vs Salmon Arm going 5-0-0-2
Last Game:
Friday, August 25th Salmon Arm defeated Vernon 2-1 Double Overtime
Next Game:
Thursday, August 31st Prince George @ Vernon
Wednesday, August 30th Merritt @ Salmon Arm
Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon is 53-39-11-6 vs Salmon Arm
Since the 2002-03 regular season both teams have scored 359 goals each vs one another
Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 24-17-6-2 at home vs. Salmon Arm
Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 23-19-6-3 in Salmon Arm
The Silverbacks are 4-5-0-1 in their last ten games in Vernon
The Vipers are 4-5-0-1 in their last ten games in Salmon Arm
The Vipers last regular season win at home vs. Salmon Arm was a 4-2 victory on Thursday, December 29th 2016
The Silverbacks last regular season win in Vernon was a 5-2 victory on Wednesday, December 9th 2015
The Vipers last regular season win in Salmon Arm was a 1-0 victory on Friday, December 30th 2016
The Silverbacks last regular season win at home vs. Vernon was a 6-1 victory on Saturday, January 30th 2016
Here's a look at this year's schedule vs Salmon Arm
Friday, August 25th Salmon Arm @ Vernon: Silverbacks won 2-1 double overtime
Saturday, August 26th Vernon @ Salmon Arm
Friday, September 8th Vernon @ Salmon Arm
Saturday, September 9th Salmon Arm @ Vernon
Friday, November 3rd Salmon Arm @ Vernon
Friday, December 8th Vernon @ Salmon Arm
Friday, December 29th Vernon @ Salmon Arm
Saturday, December 30th Salmon Arm @ Vernon
Since the 2002-03 regular season both teams have scored 359 goals each vs one another
Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 24-17-6-2 at home vs. Salmon Arm
Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 23-19-6-3 in Salmon Arm
The Silverbacks are 4-5-0-1 in their last ten games in Vernon
The Vipers are 4-5-0-1 in their last ten games in Salmon Arm
The Vipers last regular season win at home vs. Salmon Arm was a 4-2 victory on Thursday, December 29th 2016
The Silverbacks last regular season win in Vernon was a 5-2 victory on Wednesday, December 9th 2015
The Vipers last regular season win in Salmon Arm was a 1-0 victory on Friday, December 30th 2016
The Silverbacks last regular season win at home vs. Vernon was a 6-1 victory on Saturday, January 30th 2016
Here's a look at this year's schedule vs Salmon Arm
Friday, August 25th Salmon Arm @ Vernon: Silverbacks won 2-1 double overtime
Saturday, August 26th Vernon @ Salmon Arm
Friday, September 8th Vernon @ Salmon Arm
Saturday, September 9th Salmon Arm @ Vernon
Friday, November 3rd Salmon Arm @ Vernon
Friday, December 8th Vernon @ Salmon Arm
Friday, December 29th Vernon @ Salmon Arm
Saturday, December 30th Salmon Arm @ Vernon
Let's take a look at the Vernon Vipers:
The 0-0-0-1 Vernon Vipers make their first of four visits to the Shaw Centre (exhibition & regular season). The Vipers are coming off a 2-1 double overtime loss to the visiting Salmon Arm Silverbacks Friday in Vernon. This is the second of eight meetings with the Silverbacks (pre-season & regular season). This is the Snakes first and only exhibition game away from home. Vernon will play their final two pre-season games after tonight, on home ice. The Vipers won two of four games (exhibition & regular season) in Salmon Arm last year, collecting at least a single point in three of the four games.
Vernon Vipers Roster:
http://bchl.ca/stats/roster/21
Steven Jandric (27-24-51) lead the team last season in goals with twenty seven & in points with fifty one.
Kevin Kraus was an Assistant Coach with the 2013-14 Salmon Arm Silverbacks
Vernon Vipers 2016-17 final regular season stats:
Games Played: 58
Wins: 30
Losses: 19
Ties: 4
Overtime Wins: 1
Overtime Losses: 5
Home Record: 18-7-3-1
Road Record: 12-12-2-3
Overtime Record: 2-5-4
Record vs Interior Division: 18-9-3-4
Record vs Island & Mainland Divisions: 12-10-2-0
When the Vipers score first: 25-7-2-3
When the opponents score first: 5-12-3-1
Leading after the 1st period: 20-3-1-1
Tied after the 1st period: 7-8-3-1
Trailing after the 1st period: 3-8-1-2
Leading after the 2nd period: 25-2-2-1
Tied after the 2nd period: 3-1-3-2
Trailing after the 2nd period: 2-15-0-1
Out shooting opponents: 19-8-4-2
Out shot by opponents: 9-9-1-1
One goal games: 10-2-5-2
Goals for: 180
Goals against: 158
Standings: Finished in 2nd Place
Longest winning streak: Unbeaten in ten games (7 wins-3 ties)
Longest losing streak: Three game losing streak (Twice)
Vernon Vipers Returning Players:
(These may not be 100% correct/Team rosters aren't fully updated)
Brett Stapley (99)
Jagger Williamson (98)
Jimmy Lambert (97)
Niko Karamanis (98)
Jesse Lansdell (98)
Michael Ufberg (97)
Shane Kelly (97)
Sol Seibel (99)
Chris Jandric (98)
Ty Taylor (99)
Ryan Brushett (98)
Simon Sagissor (97)
Brody Dale (99)
New Recruits-Committed Players:
Coleton Bilodeau (00)
Josh Prokop (00)
Connor Marritt (99)
Alex Swetlikoff (01)
Jack Judson (00)
Newly Acquired Players Involving Trades:
Keyvan Mokhtari (98)
Jordan Sandhu (99)
Finn Evans (99)
Vernon Vipers departed & traded players from last years team:
(These may not be 100% correct/Team rosters aren't fully updated)
Austin Adamson (96)
Riley Brandt (96)
Hunter Zandee (96)
Luke Gingras (98)
Steven Jandric (97)
Cooper Watson (96)
Cameron Trott (97)
Connor Clouston (96)
Darion Hanson (97)
Vernon's home record vs Salmon Arm last year:
3-0-0-1
Vernon's road record vs Salmon Arm last year:
2-0-0-1
Vernon's scoring leaders vs Salmon Arm last year:
Jimmy Lambert (9-2-11)
Michael Ufberg (1-8-9)
Steven Jandric (2-5-7)
Brett Stapley (0-7-7)
Hunter Zandee (1-5-6)
Jagger Williamson (4-2-6)
Cameron Trott (1-4-5)
Niko Karamanis (3-2-5)
Chris Jandric (1-3-4)
Cooper Watson (0-3-3)
Austin Adamson (1-2-3)
Riley Brandt (2-0-2)
Christian Cakebread (2-0-2)
Luke Gingras (1-0-1)
Connor Clouston (0-1-1)
Ryan Brushett (0-1-1)
Jesse Lansdell (1-0-1)
Shane Kelly (0-1-1)
Ty Taylor (3-0-1 Record)
Darion Hanson (2-0-1 Record)
Let's take a look at the Salmon Arm Silverbacks:
The 1-1-0-0 Salmon Arm Silverbacks are coming off a 2-1 double overtime victory in Vernon last night, return home after starting the pre-season on the road. The Silverbacks make their pre-season home debut tonight after going 1-1 on their two game road trip. The Backs will play six exhibition games with three of their final four at home. Salmon Arm will host the Snakes three more times this season. Salmon Arm has won five straight exhibition games over Vernon and are 6-4-1-0 in pre-season vs the Vipers since 2011.
Salmon Arm Silverbacks Roster:
http://bchl.ca/stats/roster/20
Elijiah Barriga (30-27-57) lead the team last season in goals with thirty while Carson Bolduc (19-41-60) lead the team last season in goals with in points with sixty.
Troy Mick played with the 1984-85 Vernon Lakers was also an Assistant Coach, Head Coach-GM with the Vernon Lakers-Vipers (1993-2000)-(2005-2006)
Salmon Arm Silverbacks 2016-17 final regular season stats:
Games Played: 58
Wins: 24
Losses: 28
Ties: 3
Overtime Losses: 3
Home Record: 11-14-2-2
Road Record: 13-14-1-1
Goals for: 181
Goals against: 222
Standings: Finished in 6th Place (Missed Playoffs)
Salmon Arm Silverbacks Returning Players:
No current roster is available
New Recruits-Committed Players:
No current list is available
Newly Acquired Players Involving Trades:
Mitch Stapley (97)
Bo Didur (97)
Tanner Campbell (97)
Aidan Casey (98)
Logan Mostat (97)
Salmon Arm Silverbacks departed and traded players from last years team:
No current roster is available
Salmon Arm's home record vs Vernon last year:
0-2-0-1
Salmon Arm's road record vs Vernon last year:
0-3-0-1
Salmon Arm Silverbacks scoring leaders vs Vernon last year:
Josh Blanchard (2-3-5)
Josh Latta (3-2-5)
Connor Sundquist (2-2-4)
Carson Bolduc (1-3-4)
Elijiah Barriga (2-2-4)
Justin Wilson (1-3-4)
Jared Turcotte (0-4-4)
Ryley Booth (2-1-3)
Haydn Hopkins (1-2-3)
Marcus Mitchell (0-3-3)
Carter Cochrane (2-1-3)
Grayson Constable (1-0-1)
Riley Hayles (0-1-1)
Mitch Skapski (1-0-1)
Nathan Iannone (0-1-1)
Carter Stephenson (0-1-1)
Austin Chorney (0-1-1)
Nic Tallarico (0-1-2 Record)
Trevin Kozlowski (0-3 Record)
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