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Express host Autism Acceptance Game at the Poirier

The day has finally arrived for the Express’ annual Autism Acceptance Game and the excitement could not be more palpable. In partnership with Canucks Autism Network, the Train Station will be a safe space for those on the spectrum to enjoy the world of hockey this afternoon. The Express always have sensory kits available but today even more measures will be in place such as no train horn following Coquitlam goals, quieter music levels, trained staff on site to assist families, and more designated quiet areas.

One of the highlights of the afternoon will be the beautiful custom jerseys adorning the Express players. Lucas Gates, a local artist and Autism advocate, knocked it out of the park again this year with the design. The jerseys are set to be worn in game and they are currently up for auction with all proceeds going to the Canucks Autism Network.

The Express will need to put their best foot forward today if they want the weekend sweep. Overtime was needed on Friday night to vanquish the Rivermen as Langley and Coquitlam traded blows all throughout the most recent meeting. Transition will be a massive factor this afternoon, both offensively and defensively. The Rivermen gave Coquitlam some trouble when it came to the speed they attacked the offensive zone with. The tighter confines of the Train Station compared to the Lodge may help deny a few feet of extra space but the rest still needs to be accounted for. Stepping up and controlling the neutral zone dictates the amount of pressure your opponent can muster with quick transition strikes. Once the game makes it into the attacking zone sets, the Express also need to be better at defending the goalmouth area. Three of Langley’s four goals on Friday came from the Rivermen winning netfront battles and being in the right position for a well-timed tip or rebound. Two of those said front-doorstep goals came from Ryan Schelling, whom will be a person of interest for the Express’ defence today.

Offensively for Coquitlam they found the winning formula on Friday, now it is a chance to commit to that effort on home ice. Langley were susceptible to chances when the forecheck generated turnovers. Both Kovacevic and Odyniec’s goals on Friday were a result of quick decision making and finding an open guy when the Rivermen coughed up the puck. If Coquitlam pressure Langley like their lives depend on it then there will likely be a bounty of great opportunities to put home. Don’t get too aggressive though, as a swing and a miss might just head down the other way for an odd-man rush.

Carson McGinley is one of the hottest hands on the Express with three goals in three games since joining the team. Nate Crema is also riding a three-game point streak as 2025 has kicked off well for the North Vancouver product.

Be sure to join us at 3PM PST at the Poirier Sports and Leisure Complex for this incredible afternoon of inclusivity. Can’t make it down? The FloHockey broadcast will as always be live just prior to puckdrop.

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– Ian Wilson