Langley, BC – The Rivermen got back on track with a great performance on Saturday night (October 19) as they played to a 1-1 tie with the Penticton Vees in what was one of the most exciting games of the year. The score doesn’t tell the whole story as it was a hard fought battle and both teams’ goaltenders were spectacular throughout and especially in both overtime periods. The Rivermen now have a record of 9-4-1-1 and still remain atop the BCHL Mainland Division, two points back of Penticton for top spot in the entire BCHL.
It was a fast paced game right from puck drop as the Rivermen were throwing their weight around in one of the more physical games of the season. They found themselves in penalty trouble early and for most of the game but their penalty kill stood tall, in particular goaltender Steve Myland who made some timely saves.
In the second period special teams continued to play a role as Matt Ustaski scored a shorthanded goal to give the Rivermen the lead. It was a great individual effort as he chased down a loose puck, won a puck battle in front of the Vees net and slid it under Hunter Miska for the game’s first goal.
The Rivermen looked to have the win in the bag but they failed to capitalize on a 5 on 3 power play to put the game away. The Vees were able to find the back of the net and even things up just a few minutes later as the game was all tied up with 5 minutes to go. From there both teams had their chances in the final minutes of regulation time with Myland again coming up with a couple great saves to give his team the chance in overtime.
In overtime there were no shortage of chances with 4 on 4 and 3 on 3 hockey but both goaltenders continued their superb play in the extra frames as neither goalie wanted to give up the winner. Jakob Reichert probably had the best chance for the Rivermen as he found himself wide open in the slot but Miska was equal to the task with a buzzer beater save. It was an exciting end and an entertaining game that finished with a single point for both teams.
The Rivermen don’t have any time to rest as they hit the ice again tomorrow afternoon (October 20) at 2pm as they host the Prince George Spruce Kings at the Langley Events Centre. Also fans are welcome to stick around after the game to skate with the Rivermen.
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