Looking to bounce back this week against two strong opponents, the Langley Rivermen will host the final two home games of 2018 on Thursday, December 20th and Friday, December 21st. They finished the previous week with two close losses against some of the top teams in the league and are ready for another challenge from the next two opponents.
An offensive-powered weekend saw the Rivermen on the wrong side of the scoreboard for both games. In the first game against Powell River, Langley went into the 1st intermission with a 2-1 lead. Once they came back onto the ice for the 2nd, the Kings took over, scoring five goals in the period. Their 6-3 win over the Riv saw goals from six different players. Langley goals came from Daneel Lategan, Kalen Szeto, and Trevor Ayre.
Two rivals in Langley and Chilliwack clashed the next night. The two teams played a back and forth game until the final ten minutes, where the Chiefs pulled ahead for good with two goals to take it 6-5. The opposition was led by Jacques Bouquot who netted a hat trick. Ayre found the back of the net twice and Lategan had three helpers for the home team.
Prince George (24-9-1-2) currently boasts the best record on the BCHL. The Riv (16-18-1-0) have played some strong games against the Spruce Kings so far this season, with the season series sitting at 4-2 for Prince George. Langley has met Salmon Arm once this season, with the Rivermen coming out on top by a score of 4-3 in overtime. The Silverbacks (17-13-4-0) currently sit in 5th in the Interior Division.
Game times for both games this week are 7:15pm. On Friday night the Rivermen are celebrating Christmas at the Lodge. Activities during this day include Turkey Bowling, an Ugly Sweater Contest, and Santa along with two of his elves will be in attendance. Santa will also be dropping the puck before the game and will be available for pictures. The concession will have a special menu for the game with turkey and Christmas desserts.
This week’s games are also the final opportunity to purchase merchandise for the Rivermen fan in your life before the holiday. Stop by the merchandise booth to find the perfect gift.
Tickets for home games can be purchased at the George Preston Recreation Centre “The Lodge” box office 45 minutes before puck drop and by calling 604-229-2352 or emailing tickets@langleyrivermen.com.
