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Backs Hit Road As They Battle Express

SALMON ARM, BC- It’s a quick turnaround for the Salmon Arm Silverbacks, as they hit the road for their third game in four nights. They are looking to close out a perfect week, as they have already downed the Vernon Vipers and the Merritt Centennials on home ice this week. This sit atop the Interior Division with an 8-0-1 record. They extended their winning streak to six in a row, with a 7-2 victory over the Cents. Owen Beckner scored his first BCHL goal in last night’s contest. Liam Vanderkooi got his first start since October 20th against the Coquitlam Express. He stopped 21/23 and improved to 2-0 on the year. Last night, the Silverbacks were impressive on special teams, recording a powerplay goal and two short-handed goals. Ethan Ullrick and Simon Tassy recorded the short-handed goals. Their penalty kill remains at the top of the BCHL, killing off an impressive 33/35 to begin the year. Tonight they will battle the Express for the second and final meeting of the season. They met in the BCHL showcase, and it was the Backs coming out on top with a 5-3 victory.

A Look At The Opposition:

The Express sit at the bottom of the Coastal Division with a 2-8-1 record. After beginning the season with a 2-2 record, the wheels have quickly fallen off the bus, the Express have lost seven in a row. The last three losses all came at the hands of the Langley Riverman, the first-place team in the Coastal Division. The Express were outscored 15-3 in those losses. They are amidst a lengthy stretch at home, as six of the next eight are at Poirier Sports and Leisure Center. Arlo Merritt and Ryan have led the charge for the Express offensively, both with 10 points in 11 games. The downfall for the Express has been two things. Goaltending and special teams. In goal, Connor Mackenzie and Adam Manji have a combined 5.29 GAA and a .847 SV%. The special teams aren’t much better, their powerplay is third worst at 15.2%, and their penalty kill is a BCHL worst 66.7%. The Silverbacks are coming in tonight with the best penalty kill and third-best power play.

Puck drop is set for 7:00 PM; catch the pre-game show at 6:45 PM on HockeyTv.