Salmon Arm, B.C. – The Salmon Arm Silverbacks hosted the West Kelowna Warriors for the final time this season.
The Silverbacks start off the game strong and take the lead in the first period. Both teams trade penalties and successful kills to start off the opening period. In the final minute, Keifer Miller drops the puck to Mateu Späth who riffles a one-timer into the top corner, his 13th of the season, 1-0.
West Kelowna takes advantage of their opportunities in the second period. In the opening five minutes, Luca DeCubellis takes a hooking penalty, sending the Warriors to their second powerplay where Liam Nilsson will get a back door tap in to tie to the game, 1-1. Two minutes later, the Warriors pressure again and pot the loose puck during a mad scramble in the crease to take the 2-1 lead. After the media timeout, Caden Kemkaren-Humble, tips home the point shot to extend the lead, 3-1. The period ended physical when Liam Nilsson gets a game misconduct for a cross check after the whistle, the Silverbacks could not take advantage of the five minute powerplay. In the final minute, Brady Craik and Ian Crowley drop the gloves.
Trying for the comeback, the Silverbacks cut into the deficit. In the final three and a half minutes, Landon Mackie hammers home a rebound, his 21st of the season, bringing the Silverbacks to within one, 3-2. Pulling the goalie, the Silverbacks can’t cash in an a man advantage. Salmon Arm out shot the Warriors, 36-16 in the game.
Daniel Dirracolo stops 13/16 in the loss.
(Photo credit: Kristal Burgess)
