Game Day Audio: Salmon Arm at Trail

(Smokies celebrate a goal against SA - Photo Randy Emery)

Tonight is a big game for the Smokies. A chance to come back home after what seems like an eternity on the road. Also a chance to play a team that they've had two strong efforts against. The 5-5 tie in Salmon Arm was one of the most entertaining games of the year, while the 7-1 win over the Silverbacks at the Cominco Arena was a huge reminder to the club of what they're capable of against a very strong team. That being said, Salmon Arm is very talented. They are not going to just sit back and take another pounding. This is going to be a battle and either team could easily end up empty handed this weekend if they don't bring everything they have.

The Smokies should have Justin Brown and Graeme Strukoff back in the line-up. That's a big boost. The negative is that several players are fighting a flu bug and we won't know who will be in or out until later tonight. On the other side it appears Salmon Arm is relatively healthy. That to me means the Smokies have to hit them hard and fast to get some momentum going their way. Salmon Arm Coach Matt Hughes told me on Mountain FM's Overtime that he expects Trail to attack hard early and often. The Silverbacks will be more prepared for it than they were last time. Should be a good test for both clubs.

Smokies Coach Jim Ingram

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Salmon Arm Coach Matt Hughes

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If you need more convincing to come to tonight's game here are the video highlights from Trail's recent 7-1 victory over the Silverbacks...