Penticton, BC – The Silverbacks continued their road trip on Saturday night as they drove into Penticton to take on the Vees. It was the second meeting of the season between the two teams, and an opportunity for the ‘Backs to bounce back after their 6-1 loss to the Vees last weekend. Matthew Tovell got back into action for Salmon Arm as he got his fifth start of the season. On the other end of the ice it was Luca Di Pasquo getting the nod for the Vees.
The Silverbacks came out to a strong start as they looked to finish their checks as many time as possible in the first. It was Penticton striking first on the man advantage when Thomas Pichette (2) slid one by Tovell in the final stages of the Vees first powerplay. The Silverbacks fought right back as Nathan Morin (2) got on the board after a nice move from Jayden Grier left Morin with a yawning cage. The Vees continued to apply the pressure late in the frame as the outshot the ‘Backs 17-7, but couldnt get another one past Tovell.
The middle frame was a goaltenders dual as both teams couldn’t find a way to beat either netminder. Matthew Tovell made several big saves, as the Vees put 12 shots towards the ‘Backs net. The best save of the period came midway through the period on the Vees powerplay when he slid across the ice to stop Callum Arnott. Both teams had an opportunity on the man advantage but weren’t able to find the a solution for the goalies. The Vees outshot the ‘Backs 12-10 in the middle frame.
The third period started off in a similar fashion to the middle frame, as Matthew Tovell continued his fine form. Late in the period it was Frank Djurasevic (2) beating Tovell on a deflection to make it a 2-1 lead for the Vees. A late push from the Silverbacks fell just short as Ethan Mann (1) added an empty netter to extend the Vees lead. The Vees ended up taking this one by a final of 3-1.
Next up for the ‘Backs will be a trip into Trail next Friday night. It will be the third and final game of their road trip. Puck drop will be at 7:00PM, and you can catch all the action on Hockey TV.
Photo courtesy of Jack Murray.
