If you loved last night’s Express-Chiefs game… have we got good news for you! The second half of the home-and-home goes tonight at the Coliseum with Coquitlam and Chilliwack set to give us another classic. Will we see yet another one-goal game or will one side find the means to crack open a larger lead?
First order of business tonight for the Express is to maintain their composure and defensive pressure. It was immense last night on home ice and if they keep that purpose heading into the second half of the doubleheader, Chilliwack are in trouble. If history has taught us anything this season, it’s that the Express play great hockey when they are in the Coliseum. Both games against the Chiefs in Chilliwack this season were wins and the two games at the BCHL showcase were stellar as well. Something about that building finds ways to inspire the Express.
On the flipside, the Chiefs are finally back at home after spending the last five on the road. While they had some success during that time away from the Coliseum, five games, including a trip to Prince George followed by an Alberta swing, will have its affect on the legs. They will need to find their footing early and try to snuff out the impending energy the Express will surely flood this upcoming game with. Chilliwack had an excellent stretch in the second period last night where they hemmed the Express into their zone for the better part of two minutes without relenting. While it didn’t result in a goal, they generated a plethora of quality chances and showcased how effective their forecheck can be. That is the version of Chilliwack that has placed them atop the Coastal Conference to this date and it is the version they will need lest they drop another decision to the Express.
Depth scoring / contributions were a major key to the success of Coquitlam last night and it will be a top priority again this evening. Trip Pendy’s two goals were a welcome sight on the scoresheet and the Express’ bottom six were sensational overall. The line of Shaan Mann, Cale Colwell and Ryder Riedel were electric and not only played well defensively, but hit everything that moved and generated some offence purely by willing the puck past Chilliwack. Mitch Kneidel was a standout on the defensive end, constantly getting himself into passing and shooting lanes and in general disrupting Chilliwack at critical moments. There were several positives for the Express all across the board and one of the greatest was that reaffirmation of team play. No heroes were out there last night, just guys that had each other’s backs to the final whistle.
Tune in for the broadcast on FloHockey tonight or come on down Highway 1 and join the Express Moms whom will make the trip to keep the momentum rolling into the Coliseum.
FLOHOCKEY BROADCAST (Select “Away” Stream)
– Ian Wilson
