Salmon Arm 4 vs. Vernon 5 (Game 6/Round 3)

Kehler/Ferner Game 6 Audio

Salmon Arm Silverbacks' General Manager & Head Coach Tim Kehler discusses an early blown whistle, an overturned call under destress, deserving of all seven penalties, great poise & character to erase the lead, oppurtunities late to win, putting last night behind the team, and Vernon's experience.



Vernon Vipers' General Manager & Head Coach Mark Ferner discusses finally going to overtime, foot soliders contributing, success on the powerplay, losing momentum, a five d-man unit, and dictating the pace of play on the road with line changes.

Salmon Arm vs. Vernon Game 6 Lines

Salmon Arm:

Knowles - Killip - Gannon
Zulinick - Hammond - Reid
Ten Vaanholt - Gervais - Michelle
Cave - Muller - de Jersey

Reardon - Vasaturo
Atkinson - Mills
Friedel - Manson

Moore
Williams

Elliott/Mistal/McKissock

Vernon:

Robinson - Murphy - Kakoske
McGillis - Walchuk - Basara
Zalewski - Nowick - Knisley
McPhee - Fitzgerald - Hadley

Weinstein - Thompson
Corkey - Lyles
- Renz

Halcrow
Voth

Cochrane(AP)/Mowat/Muench/Patenaude/Sparrow

Salmon Arm 2 @ Vernon 3 (OT) (Game 5/Round 3)

Game 5 of Round 3

In Vernon at the Wesbild Centre the Salmon Arm Silverbacks erased a two goal deficit to force overtime where a controversial goal handed the Vipers a 3-2 victory in the game as well as a 3-2 series lead in the Interior Conference Finals. After a failed Silverbacks clear was kept in the zone by Vernon's Steven Weinstein he took a shot that trickled behind netminder Kris Moore. At this point the referee in the zone without view of the puck went to his mouth with his whistle while Aaron Hadley poked the loose puck into the net. After immediately waving off the goal the referee talked to the other ref along with one linesman and then pointed to the net to signal the end of the game.

Down 2-0 the Apes got within one goal with 40 seconds left in the second period as shorthanded Josh Manson cleared the puck out of his zone to Mike Hammond in the neutral zone who dropped a pass to the trailing Morgan Zulinick and the 1994 born winger buried the puck over the glove hand for his second goal of the playoffs.

In the third period Salmon Arm tied the game when Brett Knowles passed out of his zone to Devin Gannon whose initial shot was blocked but following up the play Clinton Atkinson found the biscuit and snapped home his second of the postseason.

The Vipers developed a two-goal lead with a powerplay marker in both the first and second period. After an atrocious blow to the head penalty assessed to Manson Darren Nowick tipped home a great Ryan Renz pass on the doorstep to opening the scoring. On the "infraction" the Vipers' player carrying the puck up ice bent over forwards reaching for the puck at the blueline as Manson made contact at full speed. Dylan Walchuk scored the second powerplay tally after a pass out of the corner from Patrick McGillis.

Overall the Snakes went two-for-seven on the man-advantage in 10:10 while the Silverbacks were zero-for-three in only 4:45 of powerplay time.

Friedel/Kehler/Ferner Game 5 Audio

Salmon Arm Silverbacks' defenceman James Friedel discusses an improvement in game 4, enjoying the challenge of playing against a strong cycle game, playing with a team defense first mentality, not panicking, and resembling Joe Dirt.



Salmon Arm Silverbacks' General Manager & Head Coach Tim Kehler discusses congratulations to a strong showing by the Tier 2 Midgets, moving out of structure & chasing pucks, a crucial minute and a half, a couple of tweaks to the powerplay, and feeling good about being tied at two in the series.



Vernon Vipers' General Manager & Head Coach Mark Ferner discusses getting the opposition to try and come and take the puck away, simplifying the game while protecting a lead, not getting frustrated when not scoring on powerplay chances, McGillis & Walchuk's chemistry, getting back a full lineup, not putting a show on at home.

Salmon Arm @ Vernon Game 5 Lines

Salmon Arm:

Knowles - Killip - Gannon
Zulinick - Hammond - Reid
Ten Vaanholt - Gervais - Michelle
Cave - Muller - de Jersey

Reardon - Vasaturo
Atkinson - Mills
Friedel - Manson

Moore
Williams

Elliott/Mistal/McKissock

Vernon:

Robinson - Murphy - Kakoske
McGillis - Walchuk - Basara
Zalewski - Nowick - Knisley
Sparrow - Fitzgerald - Hadley
McPhee

Weinstein - Thompson
Corkey - Lyles
- Renz

Halcrow
Voth

Mowat/Muench/Patenaude

Salmon Arm 2 vs. Vernon 3 (Game 4/Round 3)

Atkinson/Kehler/Ferner Game 4 Audio

Salmon Arm Silverbacks' defenceman Clinton Atkinson discusses not competing, being embarrassed, playing as a forward, a first in his career, being relaxed, and the best playoff beard.



Salmon Arm Silverbacks' General Manager & Head Coach Tim Kehler discusses the final score being indicative of the play, a more desperate hockey team, hard to pick up intensity as the game goes along, too many turnovers, needing an elephant like memory, and developing some hard feelings.



Vernon Vipers' General Manager & Head Coach Mark Ferner discusses veteran players stepping up, needing to relax, not throwing pucks away, playing more minutes when keeping it simple, and identifying the most dangerous player on the powerplay.

Salmon Arm vs. Vernon Game 4 Lines

Salmon Arm:

Knowles - Killip - Gannon
Zulinick - Hammond - Reid
Ten Vaanholt - Gervais - Michelle
Cave - Muller - de Jersey

Reardon - Vasaturo
Atkinson - Mills
Friedel - Manson

Moore
Williams

Elliott/Mistal/McKissock

Vernon:

Robinson - Murphy - Kakoske
McGillis - Walchuk - Basara
Zalewski - Nowick - Knisley
McPhee - Fitzgerald - Hadley

Weinstein - Thompson
Corkey - Lyles
- Renz

Halcrow
Voth

Mowat/Muench/Patenaude/Sparrow

Salmon Arm 1 vs. Vernon 5 (Game 3/Round 3)

Zulinick/Kehler/Ferner Game 3 Audio

Salmon Arm Silverbacks' forward Morgan Zulinick discusses a great first period, three primary assists, returning from injury, not taking anything for granted, playing with a couple of skilled vets, and experiencing the playoffs.



Salmon Arm Silverbacks' General Manager & Head Coach Tim Kehler discusses needing some more urgency early, defending well, not taking many shots, a satisfying shutout, precaution with Josh Manson, and not being overconfident.



Vernon Vipers' General Manager & Head Coach Mark Ferner discusses a humbling loss, having a short memory, needing to find a break, an upset goaltender, and keeping it simple.

Salmon Arm vs. Vernon Game 3 Lines

Salmon Arm:

Knowles - Killip - Gannon
Zulinick - Hammond - Reid
Ten Vaanholt - Gervais - Michelle
Cave - Muller - de Jersey

Reardon - Vasaturo
Atkinson - Mills
Friedel - Elliott

Moore
Williams

Manson/Mistal/McKissock

Vernon:

Robinson - Murphy - Kakoske
McGillis - Walchuk - Basara
Zalewski - Nowick - Knisley
McPhee - Fitzgerald - Hadley

Weinstein - Thompson
Corkey - Lyles
- Renz

Halcrow
Voth

Lawson(AP)/Mowat/Muench/Patenaude/Sparrow

Salmon Arm 6 @ Vernon 0 (Game 2/Round 3)

Salmon Arm 5 @ Vernon 3 (Game 1/Round 3)

Reardon/Kehler/Ferner Game 2 Audio

Salmon Arm Silverbacks' defenceman Jayson Reardon discusses a solid simple road game, scoring first, a 180 foot empty netter, getting a chance on the powerplay to put up points, and playing close to home.



Salmon Arm Silverbacks' General Manager & Head Coach Tim Kehler discusses weathering an early storm, scoring first in nine of ten playoff games, a big assignment for the fourth unit, rewarding players for solid play, turning a corner in the faceoff circle, Brett Knowles' versatility, Josh Manson's confidence, and not worrying about taking an icing with an empty net to shoot at.



Vernon Vipers' General Manager & Head Coach Mark Ferner discusses a pretty flat effort, needing to be more physical, a two-man referee system, and who starts in net.

Salmon Arm @ Vernon Game 2 Lines

Salmon Arm:

Knowles - Killip - Gannon
Zulinick - Hammond - Reid
Ten Vaanholt - Gervais - Michelle
Cave - Muller - de Jersey

Reardon - Vasaturo
Atkinson - Mills
Friedel - Manson

Moore
Williams

Elliott/Mistal/McKissock

Vernon:

Robinson - Murphy - Kakoske
McGillis - Walchuk - Basara
Zalewski - Nowick - Knisley
McPhee - Fitzgerald - Hadley

Weinstein - Thompson
Corkey - Lyles
Patenaude - Renz

Halcrow
Voth

Lawson(AP)/Mowat/Muench/Sparrow

Game 1 of Round 3

In Vernon at the Wesbild Centre before 2215 fans the Salmon Arm Silverbacks gained home ice advantage in the Interior Conference Finals with a 5-3 victory over the Vipers for a 1-0 series lead. With the game tied at two and seven minutes remaining in the third period the Paul de Jersey show started as he first scored while being hooked to give his team back the lead with his fourth of the playoffs followed two minutes later by stealing a puck at the blueline and passing cross ice to Mike Hammond who quickly one-timed the biscuit home for his ninth of the postseason and a two goal lead. Salmon Arm would need both markers as with three minutes left Vernon scored on a powerplay to get back within a goal before Jayson Reardon iced the game with an empty-netter from his own goaline for his first of the second season.

Overall the Vipers went one-for-six on the man-advantage in 9:48 while the Silverbacks went one-for-three with 3:40 of time on the powerplay.

Salmon Arm jumped out to a 1-0 lead four minutes into the game with a man-advantage as Dave Killip disrupted a clearing attempt allowing Brett Knowles to get a shot on goal which provided a rebound for Bryce Gervais and his second goal of the postseason. With a minute left in the first period Vernon tied the game as John Knisley's sharp angle shot produced a rebound for Darren Nowick to poke at sending the puck behind Kris Moore where referee Grant Tyson signalled a goal despite the goal light not coming on with the puck near the goalline.

The Apes were the lone team to score in the middle frame as Moore left a puck at the side of his net for Josh Manson who passed up the left wing and followed up the play to get a return pass from Knowles and wrist it over the glove of Kirby Halcrow for his second of the playoffs. For Knowles it was his second primary assist of the game and for Moore it was the first of two assists on the net (empty-net goal) to go along with 38 saves. The Snakes tied up the game for a second time half way through the third period when Dylan Walchuk's backhand shot went off Moore's pad followed by Patrick McGillis' skate as he was stopping in front of the net.

Muller/Kehler/Ferner Game 1 Audio

Salmon Arm Silverbacks' forward Devin Muller discusses playing their best game on Monday, scoring a quirky call, the success of his line with Dustin Cave & Paul de Jersey, learning the centre ice position, and expecting a hard working series.



Salmon Arm Silverbacks' General Manager & Head Coach Tim Kehler discusses everything coming together in Game 5, making great plays at key times, using depth to wear out their opponent, an update on Brandon Mistal, not worrying about not having a bye, and a much closer season series than record indicates.



Vernon Vipers' General Manager & Head Coach Mark Ferner discusses gaining playoff experience for some newbies, great contributions from his fourth unit, Colton Sparrow's five points in the playoffs after seven in the regular season, Kirby Halcrow taking the ball and running with it, different challenges against Salmon Arm than against Westside, older players relaying a positive response, and somebody running my show.

Salmon Arm @ Vernon Game 1 Lines

Salmon Arm:

Knowles - Killip - Gannon
Zulinick - Hammond - Reid
Ten Vaanholt - Gervais - Michelle
Cave - Muller - de Jersey

Reardon - Vasaturo
Atkinson - Mills
Friedel - Manson

Moore
Williams

Elliott/Mistal/McKissock

Vernon:

Robinson - Murphy - Kakoske
McGillis - Walchuk - Basara
Zalewski - Nowick - Knisley
McPhee - Fitzgerald - Hadley

Patenaude - Thompson
Weinstein - Renz
Corkey - Lyles

Halcrow
Voth

Lawson(AP)/Mowat/Muench/Sparrow

Salmon Arm/Vernon Series Preview

The Salmon Arm Silverbacks went 7-1 against the Vernon Vipers this season and collected 14 of a possible 16 points: (4-1 on both September 10th & 11th, 3-2 & 4-3 on Novemeber 12th & 13th, 3-6 & 3-2 OT on Decemember 29th & 30th, 3-0 on January 25th, and 5-4 on February 9th. The Vipers went 1-6-0-1 and collected three points. The Apes outscored the Snakes 29-19 including 12-5 in the second period. Vernon outshot Salmon Arm 34.3 to 24.9 including 12.4 to 7.6 in the opening frame. Special teams wise the Silverbacks went 21.6% on the powerplay whereas the Vipers went 9.1%. The Apes scored first in five games and won all three contests when Vernon scored first. The Silverbacks are also responsible for the only game the Snakes lost in regulation when leading after the first period. Half of the games were decided by one-goal and Salmon Arm won all four of those games. The Apes led for 4:43:55, trailed for 1:19:26, and were tied for 2:04:32 during eight games totalling 8:07:53 in minutes. The Silverbacks took all four games played in Vernon.

Players wise Brett Knowles led the way with ten points, Dave Killip had eight points, Jarryd Ten Vaanholt had seven points in seven games, Mike Hammond had two points in two games along with two points in two games with Cowichan Valley against Vernon, Devin Gannon recorded seven points, and Brad Reid had two points in three games.

For Vernon Kyle Murphy had nine points in six games, Max Mowat had five points in six games, and Dylan Walchuk posted four points in six contests.

In goal Kris Moore led the way with a 5-1 record along with 2.13 goals against average and .936 save percentage for Salmon Arm. Kirby Halcrow started the last four games in the season series but was pulled after two periods in the last meeting while putting up a 1-3 record along with a 3.70 and .868. Earlier this season with Quesnel Halcrow went 0-3 against the Apes with a 6.43 and .817. Blake Voth meanwhile went 0-3 with a 3.82 and .804. Chase Martin and Bryton Udy also saw time in net and overall Salmon Arm's goaltenders posted a 2.22 and .934 while Vernon's posted a 3.60 and .854.

During the regular season the Silverbacks finished with the third most goals for per game and ninth best goals against while Vernon finished 11th and 2nd respectively. In the playoffs Salmon Arm has average the second most goals for and fourth fewest against while the Vipers have the fourth most for and third fewest against. The Apes led the regular season in powerplay percentage while the Snakes finished 12th but have posted a 26% on the man-advantage in their last 24 games. Vernon took the fewest penatlies resulting in powerplay against and also scored nine shorthanded goals while the Silverbacks took the third fewest powerplays against and potted six shorties. Salmon Arm's best period is the first outscoring thier opponents 97-52 while the Vipers' best period is the second with a 81-51 advantage. Salmon Arm features seven 20 goal scorers and 11 players in double-digits in ginos while the Snakes have two 20 goal marksmen and eight with double-digits in goals.

The Silverbacks have played three more games in the playoffs but factoring in overtime Vernon has played in only 1:49:01 less than Salmon Arm all season.

Coming in Jayson Reardon has 28 points in his last 35 games, Kevin Mills has four points in his last six contests, Josh Manson has 47 points in 54 games as a defenceman, Brett Knowles has 20 points in his last 13 contests, Paul de Jersey has 14 points in his last 20 games, Devin Muller has 14 points in his last 19 games, and Mike Hammond has 20 points in his last 12 contests. For Vernon Malcolm Lyles has 11 points in his last 15 games, Darren Nowick has 22 points in his last 31 contests, Marcus Basara has nine points in his last 12 games, Patrick McGillis has 22 points in his last 28 games, Colton Sparrow has six points in his last nine games, and Trevor Fitzgerald has five points in his last six contests.

These two franchises have met in the playoffs twice back in 2005/2006 with the Silverbacks winning the second round series in five games and in 2008/2009 with the Vipers winning the Interior Conference Finals in six contests.

Salmon Arm 4 @ Penticton 2 (Game 5/Round 2)

Game 5 of Round 2

In Penticton at the South Okanagan Events Centre the Salmon Arm Silverbacks scored goals 14 seconds apart to defeat the Vees 4-2 and win the Interior Conference Semi-Final Series four games to one to advance to the Interior Conference Finals. Leading 2-1 the Silverbacks scored 83 seconds into the third period followed by another tally 14 ticks later to take a commanding lead.

Earlier Salmon Arm jumped out to a 2-0 advantage with a goal at 6:00 in the first period and another at 5:58 into the second stanza.

The Vees two markers came 2:44 after the Apes' second goal and 2:36 after the fourth tally.

Devin Muller got the Silverbacks' first goal along with his first of the postseason after taking a pass in his own end from Kevin Mills and following his own shot's rebound to the crease where the puck came from off the glass behind the net.

Morgan Zulinick scored his first of the pl'offs to make it 2-0 when Brad Reid fought off a check behind the net and found him wide open in front.

Brett Knowles made it 3-1 with his fifth of the second season after a Charlie Vasaturo dumpin got past the goaltender and Dave Killip quickly centered the puck in front of the net for a quick one-timer.

Finally Jarryd Ten Vaanholt capped the scoring with his third by intercepting a clearing attempt and beating the goalie cleanly to the stick side.

The Silverbacks now await to see who they will play for the Ryan Hatfield Trophy and also where the Friday March 18th Game 1 opener will take place either in Vernon or in Salmon Arm if Westside advances.

Gannon/Kehler/Harbinson Game 5 Audio

Salmon Arm Silverbacks' forward Devin Gannon discusses a slow start to Game 5, playing their best in the third period, nothing to be proud of yet, playing a shutdown role, stepping up in the adsence of others in round 1, joining a line with Dave Killip & Brett Knowles, and not thinking ahead to potential rest.



Salmon Arm Silverbacks' General Manager & Head Coach Tim Kehler discusses generating more in Game 4 than in the first three games, Joel Rumpel playing well, still being in the driver's seat, not recieving a powerplay, lines 1-3 playing with the same desperation as line 4, not having to shorten up the bench, and matchups not being a factor.



Penticton Vees' General Manager and Head Coach Fred Harbinson discusses getting goals from a pair of three-year veterans, playing with a lead, on the backend of another mistake, a huge turning point early, shortening the bench again, playing well once the lead was closed to one, a couple of pretty good 1994 born kids, an explanation for telling a player to stay down, and not losing three straight games at home.

Salmon Arm @ Penticton Game 5 Lines

Salmon Arm:

Knowles - Killip - Gannon
Zulinick - Hammond - Reid
Ten Vaanholt - Gervais - Michelle
Cave - Muller - de Jersey

Reardon - Vasaturo
Atkinson - Mills
Friedel - Manson

Moore
Williams

Elliott/Mistal/McKissock

Penticton:

Loik - O'Donnell - Johnston
Benik - Milan - McCauley
Betz - Mountain - Holka
Rigby - Hall - DePourcq

Johnson - Stecher
Hlookoff - Bezzo
Beaulieu - LaLeggia

Rumpel
Faust

Bannor/Berry/Iacobellis/MacMillan/Nicholson/Polk

Salmon Arm 3 vs. Penticton 4 (Game 4/Round 2)

Knowles/Kehler/Harbinson Game 4 Audio

Salmon Arm Silverbacks' forward Brett Knowles discusses Kris Moore being amazing, not yet playing their best, stepping up in the absence of others, accomplishing a longtime dream, and getting some rest.



Salmon Arm Silverbacks' General Manager & Head Coach Tim Kehler discusses Kris Moore's excellence, some embarrassment, a great opponent, over 20 blocked shots, James Friedel's strong play, many productive minutes from his fourth unit, scouts watching his organization consistently, and three scholarships to three outstanding citizens.



Penticton Vees' General Manager and Head Coach Fred Harbinson discusses an unheralded three consecutive games from a goalie, hoping fatigue sets in, changing line combinations, shortening the bench, Joel Rumpel playing better against more shots, and cooler heads prevailing.

Salmon Arm vs. Penticton Game 4 Lines

Salmon Arm:

Knowles - Killip - Gannon
Zulinick - Hammond - Reid
Ten Vaanholt - Gervais - Michelle
Cave - Muller - de Jersey

Reardon - Vasaturo
Atkinson - Mills
Friedel - Manson

Moore
Williams

Elliott/Mistal/McKissock

Penticton:

Loik - O'Donnell - Johnston
Benik - Milan - McCauley
Betz - Mountain - Holka
Rigby - Hall - Polk

Johnson - Stecher
Hlookoff - Bezzo
Beaulieu - LaLeggia

Rumpel
Faust

Bannor/Berry/Iacobellis/MacMillan/Nicholson

Salmon Arm 2 vs. Penticton 1 (Game 3)

Gervais/Kehler/Harbinson Game 3 Audio

Salmon Arm Silverbacks' forward Bryce Gervais discusses still having more to give, never knowing what Mike Hammond will do with the puck, a bag of tricks on the breakaway, being named Interior Conference Rookie of the Year, committing to Minnesota State, and resembling Jaromir Jagr.



Salmon Arm Silverbacks' General Manager & Head Coach Tim Kehler discusses being inspired by 50 Salmon Arm fans in Penticton, Mike Hammond with a hand in all three goals, Kevin Mills' great play, still needing more discipline, improved play in Game 2 over Game 1, a working non-game day, and great news for Kris Moore's save percentage.



Penticton Vees' General Manager and Head Coach Fred Harbinson discusses not capitalizing on opportunities, not changing a thing, putting pressure on the opposition, Mr. March, Joel Rumpel's play, and adapting to a new powerplay without Mark MacMillan.

Salmon Arm vs. Penticton Game 3 Lines

Salmon Arm:

Knowles - Killip - Gannon
Zulinick - Hammond - Reid
Ten Vaanholt - Gervais - Michelle
Cave - Muller - de Jersey

Reardon - Vasaturo
Atkinson - Mills
Friedel - Manson

Moore
Williams

Elliott/Mistal/McKissock

Penticton:

Johnston - O'Donnell - Holka
Benik - Milan - McCauley
Loik - Mountain - Polk
Betz - Hall - Rigby

Johnson - Stecher
Hlookoff - Bezzo
Beaulieu - LaLeggia

Rumpel
Faust

Bannor/Berry/Iacobellis/MacMillan/Nicholson

Salmon Arm 3 @ Penticton 2 (Game 2)

Game 2 of Round 2

In Penticton at the South Okanagan Events Centre the Salmon Arm Silverbacks erased a third period deficit to defeat the Vees 3-2 and take a 2-0 lead in the best of seven Interior Conference Semi-Final series. Down 2-1 and shorthanded Mike Hammond sprung Bryce Gervais on a breakaway where he was hooked leading to a penalty shot and after slowing down the Interior Conference Rookie of the Year went "roof daddy" to tie the game. Three minutes later the Apes were shorthanded again but Hammond drew a penalty in the offensive zone causing four-on-four play. At the tailend of the Salmon Arm penalty the Vees charged up ice but turned over the puck leading to a 4-on-1 rush the other way with Brett Knowles passing to freshly out of the box Kevin Mills who snapped a 26 game goaless streak to give his team the lead for good. For a third straight game the Silverbacks saved their best period of play for the third with all the games being on the line at the time.

For a second straight night Kris Moore made 40 saves and was fantastic as Salmon Arm's best player.

After the most physical period of the season by the Silverbacks in the first Hammond danced around two Vees in the neutral zone and feed Brad Reid for the game's first tally with two minutes left in the opening frame.

Penticton responded in the second period with two powerplay goals to put the Apes behind for the first time in the postseason. The Peaches finished two-for-six on the powerplay in 9:43 but took two infractions on their two man-advantages in the third period leading to two goals against. Salmon Arm went one-for-four on the powerplay in 6:10 while also tallying on the penalty shot.

The Silverbacks' fourth unit of Devin Muller, Paul de Jersey, and Dustin Cave was terrific with a consistent shift while also drawing two penalties leading to powerplays. All six defenceman were also strong with tape-to-tape passes out of their own zone or a simple chip off the glass to get the puck out.

Killip/Kehler/Harbinson Game 2 Audio

Salmon Arm Silverbacks' forward Dave Killip returned to the lineup for Game 1 of Round 2 after missing all four games in Round 1. He discusses not the best played game, playing great with the game on the line, returning from injury, snapping a 141 game ironman streak, one last kick at the can, and expecting a better Vees' outfit in game 2.



Salmon Arm Silverbacks' General Manager & Head Coach Tim Kehler discusses playing well enough to win, playing at their best during "crunch" time, Kris Moore's best game, Mike Hammond's theatrics, needing more discipline, not panicking, and a physical counterpart.



Penticton Vees' General Manager and Head Coach Fred Harbinson discusses not burying their chances, not pressing, a missed goal, a two-referee system, missing Mark MacMillan on the powerplay, containing Mike Hammond, equaling the same effort as Game 1, and Brendan O'Donnell not missing a beat.

Salmon Arm @ Penticton Game 2 Lines

Salmon Arm:

Knowles - Killip - Gannon
Zulinick - Hammond - Reid
Ten Vaanholt - Gervais - Michelle
Cave - Muller - de Jersey

Reardon - Vasaturo
Atkinson - Mills
Friedel - Manson

Moore
Williams

Elliott/Mistal/McKissock

Penticton:

Johnston - O'Donnell - Holka
Benik - Milan - McCauley
Loik - Mountain - Polk
Rigby - Iacobellis - Hall

Johnson - Stecher
Hlookoff - Bezzo
Beaulieu - LaLeggia

Rumpel
Faust

Bannor/Berry/Betz/MacMillan/Nicholson

Salmon Arm 3 @ Penticton 1 (GAME 1)

Game 1 of Round 2

In Penticton at the South Okanagan Events Centre the Salmon Arm Silverbacks took home ice advantage away from the Vees with a 3-1 victory. Salmon Arm's best players were great as were their special teams and both combined to be the difference in the game. Goaltender Kris Moore turned in one of his finest performances of the season with 40 saves while Brett Hull Trophy winner Mike Hammond scored all three Silverback goals. The Apes also went one-for-four with 5:09 of powerplay time while holding the Vees to one goal on seven oppurtunities in 11:30 minutes with the man-advantage.

Moore was especially great in the last half of the second period when the Apes were dominated by the Peaches and did not register a shot offensively while giving up grade "A" scoring chance after grade "A" scoring chance against.

With the hattrick Hammond takes over the BCHL playoffs lead with eight goals despite playing in only five games.

Late in the game Penticton had a glorious chance to tie the contest as they went on a 5-on-3 powerplay for 1:35 with only 2:03 remaining. After 30 seconds the Vees pulled their goalie and turned the advantage into a rare 6-on-3 but shortly thereafter Devin Gannon drew a penalty and Hammond sealed the victory with an empty net goal.

Early in the contest the Vees fourth unit had two great chances to open up the scoring but Carter Rigby was stopped point-blank by Moore's glove and Mark Hall missed an open net from in close. On the very next shift Penticton twice rattled the puck off the post as first Joey Holka, on his off-wing, went shortside off the iron followed moments later by Brendan O'Donnell, also on his offside, going shortside and hitting the opposite post. With six and a half minutes left in the opening stanza Hammond took a great pass from Josh Manson and did the rest with a nice deke to the backhand to open the scoring.

After a tough finish to the second period Salmon Arm's second goal was the turning point of the game as 0:55 seconds into the final frame Morgan Zulinick fed Hammond who niftly deked and passed off to Brad Reid who return the favour with a great return pass to Hammond at the crease for a backhanded tip in. The Silverbacks continued to press and held the Peaches to one shot in the first eight minutes of the period while Joel Rumpel was at his best and stopped Salmon Arm on several chances to keep his team in the game. 1994 born defenceman Troy Stecher got his team back within one goal with eight minutes left when he collected his own rebound and quickly wrapped the puck around the net.

Manson/Kehler/Harbinson Game 1 Audio

Salmon Arm Silverbacks' defenceman Josh Manson discusses stepping up his play as the playoffs continue, committing to Quinnipiac, progressing quickly as a defenceman, and getting some pointers from a long-time NHLer.



Salmon Arm Silverbacks' General Manager & Head Coach Tim Kehler discusses a little dissapointment in his team's play with the lead, great execution in third periods, invaluable rest, how the week without a game unfolded, and how improved his team is since Decemember 11th.



Penticton Vees' General Manager and Head Coach Fred Harbinson discusses playing pretty well in the first round, battling adversity in Game 3, hitting a snowplow, some chippyness, injuries to players with scholarships as opposed to players without, the addition of Carter Rigby, and how much better his team is since December 11th.

Salmon Arm @ Penticton Game 1 Lines

Salmon Arm:

Knowles - Killip - Gannon
Zulinick - Hammond - Reid
Ten Vaanholt - Gervais - Michelle
Cave - Muller - de Jersey

Reardon - Vasaturo
Atkinson - Mills
Friedel - Manson

Moore
Williams

Elliott/Mistal/McKissock

Penticton:

Johnston - O'Donnell - Holka
Benik - Milan - McCauley
Loik - Mountain - Polk
Betz - Hall - Rigby

Johnson - Bezzo
Beaulieu - LaLeggia
Hlookoff - Stecher

Rumpel
Faust

Bannor/Berry/Iacobellis/MacMillan/Nicholson

Salmon Arm/Penticton Preview

Salmon Arm won the season series against Penticton going 3-2-1 with all six games taking place in the team's first 34 and 36 contests respectively: September 23rd (6-5 SA), October 29th (4-2 Pen), November 16th & 19th (5-4 SA/2-1 Pen), and December 10th & 11th (2-2/5-4 SA). Five of the battles were one-goal games with the other contest being a two-goal spread. The Silverbacks went 2-1 at home and 1-1-1 on the road. Both teams scored 21 goals against each other with the Apes scoring first in five of the six games and outscoring the Vees 12-4 in the first period while Penticton responded outscoring their oppenent 10-4 in the second frame. The Peaches outshot Salmon Arm 34.2 to 29.5 on average and also won the special teams battle at 31.25% on the powerplay compared to the Silverbacks going 20% on the man-advantage. The Apes led for 2:50:02 while Penticton held a lead for 50:03 and the games were tied for 2:29:55. Both teams squandered a pair of leads that lead to two losses each during the season series.

Players-wise Bryce Gervais led the way for Salmon Arm with five goals and nine points, Josh Manson had eight points, Dave Killip posted six points, Brett Knowles played in five of the games and picked up five points, Jarryd Ten Vaanholt collected five points, Devin Muller posted four points in five games, Morgan Zulinick had a goal in only one contest played while Mike Hammond and Brad Reid did not face the Vees with their new team.

For Penticton Brendan O'Donnell led the way with nine points, Joey Laleggia had seven assists, Mark MacMillan & Joey Holka both collected six points in five games, Joey Benik posted six points, Steven Iacobellis had four points in four games, and Myles McCauley potted two goals in two contests.

In goal Kris Moore led the way for the Apes going 2-0-1 with a 3.47 goals against average and .904 save percentage. Billy Faust went 1-1 with a 2.92 and .904 for the Vees while Joel Rumpel went 1-2-1 with a 3.78 and .865. Kurt Williams meanwhile went 1-1 for SA with a 3.03 and .898 while Chase Martin started and finished one game as well.

During the regular season Salmon Arm finished with the third most goals and ninth fewest against in the BCHL while Penticton scored the seventh most and allowed the third fewest. Special teams wise the two teams are seperated by .06% on the powerplay and .7 on the penalty kill with the Silverbacks holding the slight edge in both categories finishing first and third respectively in the league. The Vees also gave up ten shorthanded goals against compared to the five surrendered by the Apes. Like the season series Salmon Arm's best period is their first outscoring their oppenent 82-47 while likewise the Vees best frame is the second outscoring the competetion 81-58. The Silverbacks scored first in 38 of their games while the Peaches did so in 27 of theirs. Salmon Arm features seven 20 goal scorers and 11 players in double-digits in ginos while the Vees boast four 20 goal marksmen and 10 players with double-digits in goals.

The Vees have the Interior Conference's MVP and league point-leading defenceman in Joey Laleggia who has 12 points on a seven-game point streaks while the Silverbacks have the Brett Hull Trophy winner and league point-leading player in Mike Hammond who has 14 points in his last seven contests. Brett Knowles has 16 points during an eight-game streak, Devin Gannon has 13 points in a seven-game streak, Morgan Zulinick & Dave Killip are on four-game streaks, Devin Muller has 13 points in his last 14 games, Paul de Jersey has 13 points in his last 15 contests, and Jayson Reardon has 27 points in his last 30 games. Meanwhile O'Donnell & Benik are on four-game streaks, James Polk has six points in his last seven games, and Curtis Loik has eight points in his last ten games.

Specials teams should be even, goaltending should be even, the teams top players should cancel each other out, and what this series should come down to is whose third and fourth line players score the most. Guys like Gervais, Ten Vaanholt, de Jersey, Muller, and Cody Michelle for Salmon Arm and Logan Johnston, James Polk, Kyle Mountain, Curtis Loik, and Cater Rigby for Penticton.

These two franchises have met twice before in the playoffs back in 2006-2007 when the Vees swept the Silverbacks in the second round, and in 2005-2006 when Penticton beat Salmon Arm in five games in the Interior Conference Finals.

Salmon Arm 6 @ Merritt 5 (GAME 4)

Game 4

In Merritt at the Nicola Valley Arena the Salmon Arm Silverbacks defeated the Centennials 6-5 to sweep the Interior Conference Best of Seven Quarterfinal Series and move onto the second round. With the game tied at five Paul de Jersey took matters into his own hands and undressed two defenceman to score and give his team the lead four minutes into the third period.

Salmon Arm developed a three goal lead in the second period thanks to three points from Mike Hammond and two points each from Devin Gannon, Brett Knowles, Josh Manson, and Jayson Reardon. For a third straight game though the Cents erased a multi-goal deficit with three goals in a four minute span late in the middle stanza after pulling their goalie for the third time in the series. Merritt never did lead in the series though and it was the Silverbacks who retook the lead each time with the game tied after squandering the advantages for three consecutive one-goal victories.

With the win the Apes will now take on the second seeded Penticton Vees in a best of seven Interior Conference Semi-Final series starting Tuesday March 8th at the South Okanagan Events Centre. Salmon Arm will return home to the Sunwave Centre for Games 3 and 4 on Friday and Saturday March 11th and 12th.

de Jersey/Kehler/Pierce Game 4 Audio

Salmon Arm Silverbacks' forward Paul de Jersey discusses his overtime winner, cracking his top five in goals, and the possibility of rest.



Salmon Arm Silverbacks' General Manager & Head Coach Tim Kehler discusses Kris Moore getting better game by game, Brett Knowles & Devin Gannon's best games of the season, still needing more discipline, Clinton Atkinson as a forward, and responding well to squandered leads.



Merritt Centennials' General Manager & Head Coach Luke Pierce discusses getting over the hump, falling behind early, needing a goaltender to steal a game, a clear goal called off, and Jeff Jones' best game.

Salmon Arm @ Merritt Lines (GAME 4)

Salmon Arm:

Knowles - Gannon - Michelle
Atkinson - Hammond - Reid
Ten Vaanholt - Gervais - de Jersey
Cave - McKissock - Muller

Reardon - Vasaturo
Friedel - Manson
Elliott - Mills

Moore
Williams

Killip/Mistal/Zulinick

Merritt:

Soquila - Jones - Stack
Harper - Wall - Bokenfohr
Vallis - Brears - Reichert
Playfair - Fletcher - Sabey

Marshall - Tresierra
Witkop - Crawford
Willcox - Pfeil

Steel
Chimienti

Lebrun/Maktaak/Sabourin

Salmon Arm 4 @ Merritt 3 (OT) (GAME 3)

Game 3

In Merritt at the Nicola Valley Arena the Salmon Arm Silverbacks (3-0) scored nine minutes into overtime to defeat the Centennials (0-3) 4-3. Paul de Jersey played hero for the 'Backs finishing off a great pass from Brett Knowles who got the puck after some strong work by Devin Gannon. The two second-year Apes had career nights playing together with four points a piece. With the victory the Silverbacks lead the best of seven Interior Conference Quarter-Final Series three games to nothing.

Salmon Arm led the game 2-0 after two goals from Gannon, one in the first off the rush and one shorthanded 28 seconds into the second period to chase Lino Chimienti from the goal. After having a goal waved off the Cents scored twice on the powerplay 30 seconds apart to tie the game. Two minutes later and with three minutes left in the middle frame Knowles restored the lead when he scored four-on-four. Salmon Arm kept the lead until 6:20 remaining when Merritt scored their first even strength goal of the game.

The Centennials won the special teams battle going two-for-seven on the powerplay while the Silverbacks went zero-for-five but did score shorthanded. Merritt had to kill off a penalty with three minutes left in the third period while the 'Backs killed off a powerplay in overtime three minutes prior to scoring the winner.

Kris Moore was once again sharp in net with 35 saves while also playing the puck exceptionally.