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Rivermen gameday: Game 3- Wild @ Rivermen

A pivotal game 3 goes tonight in Langley between the Rivermen and Wenatchee Wild at George Preston Recreation Centre. After the Riv took game 1, the Wild responded a day later with an overtime win to even up the series and will play the next three at the “George” this week with it being a 2-3-2 format.

“It has been an intense series so far, which is exactly what we were all expecting. I thought the first night we battled really hard for the entire game and were rewarded with the win, where as last game we weren’t as solid, but made a good run at it near the end and forced overtime,” said captain Jordan Schneider.

It has been a tight series thus far with both games being decided by only a goal. That has been a normal occurrence lately between the Riv and Wild with four out of the last five (dating back to the regular season) being one goal affairs.

“Everybody is laying it all out on the line every shift and we aren’t surprised that only one goal has been the difference two games in. It has been fun to play in so far and hopefully we can take advantage of being at home for the next three,” said forward Justin Szeto.

With the Langley Events Centre having prior commitments this week, all Rivermen home games in this series will be taking place at George Preston Recreation Centre. Although it is a building they are unfamiliar with, Schneider and the rest of the Rivermen are not too concerned about the venue change.

“Ice is ice and isn’t going to change anything for us. We have had a few practices over there and feel comfortable playing in that building. It’s a smaller place no doubt, but if the fans pack the stands it will create a good atmosphere and will be a tough place for the opponent to play in,” said Schneider.

A question mark going into this evening is the Wild goaltending situation. Detroit Red Wings draft pick Chase Perry played in game one and took the loss, while Garrett Nieto started in game two and picked up the win. Perry was the undisputed starter in the regular season appearing in 43 games, but Nieto has played well against the Riv this season when it has been his turn to play.

“We can’t be too worried about who plays in net for them. Both are good goaltenders and capable of getting the job done, but our main focus is on executing our game plan and taking it one game at a time,” finished Szeto.

As for the big key going into tonight, captain Schneider says playing a full 60 minutes is critical.

“We can’t take a shift off and need a more consistent effort throughout. Home ice is in our favour now and hopefully we take advantage of it,” said Schneider.

It is a 7:00pm face-off from George Preston Rec Centre, which is located at 20699 42 Ave in Langley. For tickets, please call 604-882-8800 or Click Here to purchase online. The box office at George Preston will be open at 6:00pm.