It was fourth time lucky for Salmon Arm last night. 0-2-1 against the Wenatchee Wild to start the season, missing six regulars, the Silverbacks won 3-1 in the Town Toyota Center.
Goals from Aidan Sutter, Jack Sampson, and John Little lifted the team to victory scoring three times on just 16 shots. Ethan Langenegger stopped 29 of 30 shots for the victory.
For Wenatchee, it was their sixth straight home loss of the season. They now have just three wins in their last eleven games, with two of those coming in overtime. Missing their top goal scorer Matt Gosiewski, the team appeared to lack the same confidence on the ice they showed in the past three meetings.
The win for Salmon Arm gave them seven wins in the past 11 games as the team begins to heat up ahead of playoffs. Impressive as well, was the result considering the players missing. Justin Wilson was a late scratch after he took a dirty knee against the Chilliwack Chiefs on Wednesday. Fourth in goal scoring for the team, Trevor Adams sat out his first of a three game suspension, while Sol Seibel, Wyatt Marlow, Hudson Schandor, and Noah Wakeford also missed the game.
One for eight onto the power play heading into the game against Wenatchee, Salmon Arm was one for two Friday scoring a late goal on the man advantage to seal the victory giving them a two goal cushion. The team had allowed five power play goals on 14 Wild chances, but they also shut the door there not allowing the home side to score on either of their two chances in the game.
STANDINGS:
Two points for Salmon Arm last night moved them within five points of the Wild for third in the Interior Division. The next two games for each team are against one another, giving Salmon Arm a glorious chance to catch up, as they also hold a game in hand. Vernon won last night, keeping them one point behind the Silverbacks in the standings.
Who to Watch:
With his first BCHL goal last night, Aidan Sutter picked up his first point in his sixth appearance with the team. The AP callup from the Thompson Blazers didn’t look out of place at all one the ice, and held his own against a Wild attack that contains size and skill. With six points in his last five games, Jack Sampson continues to grow confidence as a Silverback. His goal last night was his first into a net with a goalie, and it was also stood as the game winner. With so many forwards out for Salmon Arm, the team will continue to need his help up front.
Expect to see Cal Sundqvist in goal tonight for the Wenatchee Wild. With three goals on 16 shots last night, the Silverbacks were able to get to the Austin Park who started for the Wild. Both netminders for the Wild have save percentages under .900. Held to just one goal, the Wenatchee Wild offence will be out for revenge tonight at home. Lucas Sowder has missed a number of games for his team, but is still the top point per game performer with 42 points in 38 games.
