Despite a gut-wrenching 3-2 overtime loss to the Langley Rivermen Saturday night, the result represents more growth for the Salmon Arm SilverBacks who had previously not scored at Shaw Centre this season.
The ’Backs achieved one point in the standings but saw the Rivermen pull out the win scoring the game-tying goal in the final minute of regulation, and then scoring the winner in the final minute of double-overtime.
Salmon Arm actually thought they had won it themselves in double overtime when Alex Gillies set up Sean Flanagan, but Langley goalie James Barr made a miraculous glove save. Off the ensuing faceoff, Mario Puskarich was sprung on a partial breakaway and beat Colin Dzijacky, who made 43 saves on the night.
“It was an unfortunate set of events to end the third period,” said Salmon Arm assistant coach Brandon West of Jakob Reichert’s power-play equalizer with Josh Bowes off for tripping. “I thought we played very well in the first overtime; we gave up a couple chances but our goalie was top notch.”
In three-on-three action in double overtime, there were lots of scoring chances both ways.
“It was highlight-reel save after highlight-reel save,” said West. “Sean one-timed (the pass from Gillies) but unfortunately, Barr got his glove on it.
“It was pretty humble in the room after the game. But it was definitely our most complete game.”
Another good sign was the fact Salmon Arm scored on the power play when Ryan Schwalbe gave them a 2-1 lead in the second. The opening goal was an unassisted, shorthanded effort by Jason Trott.
“Special teams are all about hard work,” said West. “Our guys know they have to compete on the penalty kill and on the power play.”
West and the rest of the coaching staff are confident better days are ahead as the players continue to demonstrate a strong work ethic. Also, the players are keen to reward their supporters after a tough season last year and a challenging start to this campaign. A positive development is the new players are beginning to look more comfortable.
“They know how bad they want to succeed in this community,” said West. “We’ve had some new additions to our club that are going to help us. With our rookies, now that we’re six games in, they’re starting to figure it out.”
One player that should be a key part of the offence will be Brock Balson, who suited up for his first game on Saturday. He scored 20 points in 20 games last season before joining the Kamloops Blazers.
“I remember last season, as an opposition coach, he was real tough to play against,” said West, who was with the then-Westside Warriors last year. “(Saturday) was his first game so he’s still getting used to his new line mates. I don’t think it will take him long to get back to being the presence he was last year.”
Salmon Arm hits the road for a Vancouver Island trip this weekend. The ’Backs play in Victoria Friday, Cowichan Valley Saturday and Nanaimo Sunday.
