Pregame Preview: Vernon Vipers vs. Salmon Arm Silverbacks

Vernon, BC:  The Vernon Vipers (9-14-4) return to home ice tonight for their final home game of 2024 as they take on the Salmon Arm Silverbacks (16-8-4). This matchup begins a home-and-home series between the two clubs, with the rematch scheduled for Sunday afternoon in Salmon Arm.

Tonight marks the fifth of seven head-to-head meetings this season. The season series has been tightly contested, with the Silverbacks holding a slight edge. Vernon is 2-2 against Salmon Arm so far, with one of those wins coming in overtime.

The Vipers enter the game fresh off a high-scoring 7-4 victory over Blackfalds on December 13th, a performance that provided momentum heading into the holiday break. They hold a 4-5-1 record over their last 10 games and will look to build on their recent success.

The Silverbacks, meanwhile, have hit a rough patch, going 4-4-2 in their last 10 games and currently riding a five-game winless streak. Their recent road trip through Brooks and Cranbrook proved challenging, with the team managing just two goals over their last five outings, including being shut out in three consecutive games.

Key players to watch tonight include Salmon Arm’s leading scorer Maddux Martin, who has tallied 12 goals and 9 assists, and Vernon’s Will Schumacher, who leads his team with 9 goals and 15 assists.

Puck drop is set for 6:00 PM at Kal Tire Place, with pregame coverage beginning at 5:45 on 107.5 Beach Radio, Vernon Matters, or watch live on FloHockey. Don’t miss this exciting showdown as these Interior rivals battle for key points in the standings!