Let’s head back to March 1975 when South Delta hockey fans were treated to a thrilling final series for the Vic Fisher Cup between the Ladner Fishermen and CP Air Seagulls.
Ladner goalie Peter Guichon was the story of the series, frustrating the opponent by keeping his team close in the first two games despite being heavily outshot.
Outgoing Delta Optimist sports editor Jack Keating wrote that an “absolutely amazing streak” was taking place at the South Delta Recreation Centre with the 21-year-old goaltender in the Delta Senior Hockey League recording five consecutive shutouts against the Ladner Hotel Bruins, including the first game of the opening round of the playoffs.
The Seagulls and Fishermen both disposed their opponents in straight games, setting the stage for the finals. It was reported there was “no love lost” between the two teams dating back to the previous year’s playoffs.
After the Seagulls’ 4-3 opening double-overtime game win, an avid fan described it as more entertaining than the previous night’s Vancouver Canucks’ game. Game two also went to double-overtime.
Unfortunately for the Fisherman, the Seagulls took the series in three straight games. Unlike the first two thrillers, the Seagulls won the final game with a decisive 5-1 victory.
“Ladner’s key was the remarkable netminding performance by Peter Guichion throughout the series. Guichon stopped more than 50 shots in the series opener, and 43 in game two. However, Wednesday night, Seagulls’ forwards caught up with him,” new sports editor Mike Gasher wrote.
Seagulls’ goaltender Joe Florence was also outstanding throughout the season.
Seagulls’ forward Bob Bobbett received the Sports Unlimited Trophy as the most valuable player in the playoffs.
