New Westminster Salmonbellies @ Victoria Shamrocks Preview

New Westminster Salmonbellies @ Victoria Shamrocks Preview

Friday June 24 @ 7:45, The Q centre in Colwood

Alumni night and Tailgate presented by Jenner Chevrolet Corvette Buick GMC

Written by: Lucas Wilson

If a two-game losing streak in early June gave Shamrocks Nation any doubts about their team, the last three games have put that to rest. It has been two long weeks since the Shamrocks last played in front of their fans at the The Q Centre; a dominant, 13-3 blowout win over the Langley Thunder.  Since then, the Shamrocks have played in a couple of thrillers that tested the team in a big way. The first was a particularly important matchup.

On Sunday, June 12, the Shamrocks hit the road for a rematch against the first place Maple Ridge Burrards. In the previous week, the Burrards beat the Shamrocks in Victoria, and had a strong grip on first place in the WLA.  After trailing 5-1 in the first period, the Shamrocks had a strong second period, which set up a thrilling third. The Shamrocks finished the game strong, and came away with a 12-10 win. If anything, this game was a perhaps a reminder for the Burrards that the Shamrocks will be tough to keep from the top spot.

Just three days ago, the Shamrocks hit the road once again for a date in the Swamp against the Burnaby Lakers. The first two periods were back and forth with the Shamrocks winning the first, and the Lakers winning the second, which set up a one-goal lead for the Shamrocks heading into the third. Strong play from Shamrocks goalie Cody Hagedorn and Lakers goalie Zak Boychuk kept things tight, until Jesse King tallied a shorthanded goal with seven minutes left in the game. An empty net goal by Myles Kenny put things out of reach, which gave the Shamrocks a 12-9 win.

Tonight’s game is another big matchup against the New Westminster Salmonbellies. The Shamrocks are 1-1 against the New West this year, with both teams winning their matchup at home. A win tonight would put the Shamrocks in first place in the WLA, which means they should come in to the game with some fire in their bellies. 


The Victoria Shamrocks are also acknowledging their incredible Alumni tonight along with the jersey retirement of #8 Fred ‘Whitey’ Severson.  The Victoria Shamrocks are a proud organization that has brought nine Mann Cup championships to Victoria’s incredible fan base over the last 67 years. Throughout all of the team’s success, the Shamrocks Alumni has been a strong presence in supporting the team and the community.  

Salmonbellies Scouting Report

After a rough start to the season that saw the Salmonbellies fall to 0-3, they have been hot, going 3-0-1 in their last four. The Salmonbellies have some firepower up front, led by Dane Sorensen and Logan Schuss who have both played big roles in getting the team back on track in 2016. Goalie Eric Penney has been sharp for the Salmonbellies, with the third highest save percentage in the WLA at 83.2%.

Before the game

The tailgate, which begins at 5:30, will feature White spot hamburgers and beverages by Pepsi; all being served by the Westshore Rotary club. Food and drinks by donation to the first 300 fans in the parking lot of the Q Centre.  Browns Socialhouse will be serving alcoholic beverages with proceeds going back to the Shamrocks alumni association. As well, there is face painting and other fun activities for families.

Today’s live game stats: http://www.victoriashamrocks.com/stats/game//307/league/61794

Regular season stats : http://www.victoriashamrocks.com/stats/team/62/307/league//8071

WLA stat leaders: http://www.victoriashamrocks.com/stats/leaders