Regional sports updates: Parksvillians win in soccer, Silverbacks lead in hockey

In regional sports action, the Parksvillians secured their first Vancouver Island Soccer League (VISL) win of the season with a 5-3 victory over the Juan De Fuca Wild Hogs. Played at Parksville Community Beach Park, the match saw Wittenberg score a hat trick to seal the win, following a strong performance by Franks. This victory follows a narrow 4-3 loss to Nanaimo United FC in their season opener.

In the BC Hockey League, the Salmon Arm Silverbacks defeated the Vernon Vipers 4-1 in their season opener at Rogers Rink. The Silverbacks established an early lead with goals from Brady Logue and Jared Rothman, followed by contributions from Cash Olson and Alexis Beaulieu. Despite a powerplay goal from Van Martin and strong goaltending by Sammy DiBlasi, the Vipers were unable to overcome the Silverbacks, who were supported by Noah Mavin’s 20 saves.