The Bauer BCHL Showcase took place this past week at the Prospera Centre in Chilliwack and it may not have been the result that the Rivermen were hoping for in the standings, they did have 2 good showings against a couple of the leagues top teams in the Penticton Vees and the Victoria Grizzlies.
Thursday morning, Langley took on the Penticton Vees in their first game of the Showcase. The Rivermen came into the contest on a high note as they were able to pickup 2 big points against the Chilliwack Chiefs last Saturday.
Langley would have the lead 3-2 after 2 periods of play setting the stage for the final frame of regulation. Penticton would come out of the gate with a jump in the step as they would take the lead for the first time in the game and lead the Rivermen 5-3 at one point in the 3rd.
With the Langley net empty for the extra attacker, Max Kaufman would get the Rivermen back within one goal but it was the Vees who responded a short time later and iced this one in favour of Penticton with a empty net goal and a 6-4 victory.
With the loss on Thursday, the Rivermen were looking for a better start against the Victoria Grizzlies and although it wasn’t quite the start the team was looking for, Langley battled back to tie things up at 3-3 and send this game to Overtime for the first time this young season.
Both teams exchanged multiple chances in the OT session but would have to settle for the tie.
Kaufman had a great showcase as he recorded 3 goals and 2 assists for 5 points and has now registered at least one point in every game this season.
Saturday marked the first game of the regular season for goaltender Nick Trenciansky as he turned aside 37 of 40 shots sent his way.
Up next for the Rivermen is a busy week with 3 games on the schedule which begins on Wednesday right back at the Prospera Centre in Chilliwack against the Chiefs. Followed by a road trip south of the border on Friday night with a tilt versus the Wenatchee Wild. Then finally returning back to “The Lodge” on Sunday afternoon against the Cowichan Valley Capitals.
As for now, you’re up to date. See you at the rink.
