With the WLA Season comes to a close this weekend here is a preview of this weekend’s match ups.
Langley Thunder (11-4-2) vs. Burnaby Lakers (9-7)
The Thunder clinched first place last week so they are basically now just playing for pride and looking towards the playoffs. Burnaby on the other hand are just one point up on Coquitlam for third place and just two points back of Victoria for second place so this is an important game for them. Burnaby has had Langley’s number this year beating them twice this season. Expect the duo of Scott Jones and Dane Stevens to come out firing and put pressure on the Langley defense. Considering that Langley has nothing to play for in this game and that Burnaby needs a win expect the Lakers to pull out the victory.
Nanaimo Timbermen (5-11) vs. Victoria Shamrocks (10-7)
The Timbermen come into this game having lost their last game to Coquitlam and will try to play spoiler against Victoria since they cannot make the playoffs. Victoria come into this game having lost their last game to Langley and sit just two points ahead of Burnaby for second place. The Shamrocks will want to make a statement in this game and prove they are the best team in the WLA. Expect the Shamrocks to totally dominate the Timbermen from start to finish on their way to another win.
Maple Ridge Burrards (7-10) vs. Nanaimo Timbermen (5-11)
The Burrards have had an up and down season but unfortunately their late season slide has cost them their opportunity at the playoffs. This game is really meaningless for both teams but both teams will want to end the season with a victory. Expect Curtis Dickson to build on his points lead as he will pick apart the Timbermen in this game. The Timbermen’s offense has been mediocre at best and will have problems keeping up with Maple Ridge. Expect the Burrardsto win this game and end the season on a high note as they will look to become contenders next season.
Burnaby Lakers (9-7) vs. Coquitlam Adanacs (8-8-1)
Despite trading their two top player’s the Adanac’s find themselves in a playoff position thanks to their five game winning streak. Depending on how Friday’s game goes between Langley and Burnaby this game could be a battle for third place as the Adanacs are only one point behind the Lakers for third. The two teams have split the season series with each team winning at home. The Adanacs will have the advantage of being at home in this game. While Burnaby will hope that their offense will be able to overwhelm Adanac’s goalie Adam Shute who has struggled this year. In the end Burnaby will win as they have more depth at every position along with two of the best forwards in the game in the form of Scott Jones and Dane Stevens.
