13 minutes into the third period, it looked like a done deal for the Salmon Arm Silverbacks. Leading 2-0 and going six for six on the penalty kill they were rolling against the Victoria Grizzlies.
Que top NHL prospect Alex Newhook, and the Grizzlies would not only tie the game, but win in overtime.
Neither team would score in the first period, and after surrendering three goals at the BCHL Showcase and getting pulled, no one was happier to see a zero after 20 than Grizzlies netminder Keenan Rancier.
Salmon Arm did all of their scoring in a three and a half minute span in the second period. Trevor Adams with a great effort was able to draw a penalty, and while sprawled out in front of the goal slapped the puck in for the 1-0 lead. Noah Wakeford made it 2-0 shorthanded as he stole the puck from Rancier behind the net, and was able to wrap it around into the empty cage just beating the outstretched paddle of Victoria’s goalie.
A lucky bounce in the third led to Victoria’s first goal as Newhook took a shot from the left side, and while no one could find where the puck went, the 17 year old picked it up behind the net, and working out front was able to snap on in cutting the deficit to one goal. A minute and a half later it was fellow draft prospect Alex Campbell picking the top left corner to even the score.
In overtime, the Grizzlies would get a number of opportunities, and it was finally Alex Newhook skating the puck from his own blueline, past the Silverbacks squad and making a move in front of the net before flipping the puck into the net.
The Silverbacks had a season high 847 in attendance Saturday night. The team will be back in action this coming Friday as they take on the Penticon Vees at home before heading North to take on the Prince George Spruce Kings Saturday.
Star Performer:
Olson Werenka – With his side leading 2-0 in the third, Werenka put the visitors on their heels…after two thunderous hits put Grizzly players on their rear ends.
