I was born and raised in Vernon, BC and been watching/following Junior hockey in Vernon my entire life. I have had season tickets since 1990 and only missed four Vipers home games since 2009. I have only missed 45 home games in the past thirty years. I'm not a sports journalist, writer, reporter or work for the Vernon Vipers. I do not get paid for this blog and I do this blog on my own personal time. I started and created this blog in November 2008 and have over 1.7 million viewers. For anyone who couldn't attend or watch tonight's Vipers game, here are my thought's and views from tonight's game. You may agree or disagree but we all have our own opinion on the game. I try to be professional and give a fare game recap from both sides. Thank you for visiting my blog.

I was at tonight's Vipers-Vees game as Vernon defeated Penticton 2-0 in front of 1,965 fans at Kal Tire Place.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon: James Porter Jr
Penticton: Carl Stankowski

To continue, Please click the "read more" button below,


1st Period: The Vipers with a good start, had a good hard shift off the opening puck drop. Jackson Caller's point shot twenty two seconds into the hockey game just barely missed the far post on a shot that somehow found it's way through traffic. Forty seconds later, the son of former NHLer Doug Weight, Danny Weight left alone in the slot, fired high and wide of the goal, on an early missed opportunity. Shortly after local product Matt Kowalski setup "AP" Seiya Tanaka-Campbell on the two on one. Tanaka Campbell who attended the Vipers training camp ripped a shot over the glove of Carl Stankowski, scored his first career BCHL goal, giving Vernon the early lead at 1:48 Kowalski drew the lone helper. About a minute and a half later the Snakes setup Jo Jo Tanaka-Campbell in the high slot would be denied by Carl Stankowski. At the midway mark, Danny Weight looked to be in the clear, before former Wenatchee Wild defenceman Nicholas Kent used his wheels to get back in the play, made a strong defensive play without taking a penalty, didn't allow Weight to get a shot off. About four minutes later Vees captain and smooth skating forward David Silye with a grade a chance, couldn't solve former Kelowna Rockets netminder James Porter Jr. With about three minutes remaining in the opening frame, Matt Kowalski drove hard towards the goal, looked to have Carl Stankowski down and out, couldn't hit the open cage on a strong stick from a Penticton defender, or it would be 2-0 Vernon. The Vees with a quick transition moved the play up ice in a hurry, spotting Evan McIntyre going to the goal, but the Vees d-man couldn't get the puck past James Porter Jr on two shots from the blue paint. Porter Jr from his belly had to really stretch his legs out to keep his pads tight against the post on McIntyre's second shot, as the visiting Penticton Vees come very close to tying the game with two and a half minutes left in the 1st period. With 1:01 left the Vees get caught with too many men on the ice, giving the Vipers the games first power play late to finish the period. Matt Kowalski with a good look/opportunity couldn't solve Carl Stankowski before the period ended. It was 1-0 Vernon after 20 minutes of play. I thought the Snakes had a really good start to tonight's game. The Vipers had a good opening shift, had one real good look from the blueline before opening the scoring. Vernon didn't have a lot of puck possession, were caught chasing Penticton at times. The Snakes had troubles in there own end, either turned over the puck or coughed up the puck trying to break out of there own end. Vernon with a few looks/chances had troubles generating offence. James Porter Jr had to be sharp and was, made some big stops. The Vees were the better team and carried a lot of the play. Penticton is very quick, moves the puck around well and dangerous down low. The Vees were very strong with and without the puck in the offensive zone, were very strong on the cycle and hard to contain. Penticton was also very good defensively, seemed to shut Vernon down coming across the red line. The Vees had several good looks/opportunities. Penticton outshot Vernon 13-9.

2nd Period: The Snakes started the period on the man advantage that was carried over from the 1st period. Vernon struggled off the opening faceoff as Penticton with a very aggressive penalty kill, had the Vipers hemmed in there own. The son of former NHLer Stu Barnes, Jack Barnes with a good look/opportunity shorthanded couldn't beat Vernon Vipers starting goaltender James Porter Jr. The Vipers struggled with the PP before the Vees killed off the remainder of the penalty. Shortly after killing off the minor, Liam Malmquist with a strong shift, would be denied in close by James Porter as Penticton was all over the hometown Vipers early and often. Just before the halfway mark, Matt Kowalski and Dawson Holt on a two on one attack. Kowalski decided to keep and shoot, would be stopped by Penticton Vees goaltender Carl Stankowski. Two minutes later, Liam Malmquist with his second look/chance of the period couldn't tie the hockey game on another stop by James Porter Jr. In the second half Penticton continued to pour on the pressure as the Vees had several looks/quality chances in and around the goal but couldn't solve James Porter Jr. With 1:04 left in the middle frame, Penticton would get it's first look with the PP. The Vipers would escape before the final buzzer. It was 1-0 Vernon after 40 minutes of play. The Vees dominated the entire period outplayed Vernon from the start to the end of the 2nd period but couldn't find the back of the net. Penticton with a ton of real good looks/opportunities, couldn't bury there chances. James Porter Jr was the difference, who was solid between the pipes, kept the Snakes in the contest. The Vees couldn't catch a break or get any puck luck. The Vipers played most of the entire period in there own end. Vernon struggled at clearing the zone and getting through the neutral zone. For a second straight period, the Vipers turned over and coughed up pucks inside there own blueline. The Snakes caught a few breaks, had some puck luck go there way. Penticton outshot Vernon 18-9.

3rd Period: The Vees started the final frame on the power play. Connor Hutchison with a wicked shot from the circle beat James Porter Jr but not the crossbar as Penticton come within inches of tying the hockey game. The Vipers would escape and kill off the minor. The Vees didn't back down and kept pressing. James Porter Jr was forced to make two large saves about five minutes in. One at the top of the crease, before another pad save off a shot from the slot. These two shots were labelled. Minutes later David Silye and Danny Weight with good looks/quality chances couldn't beat James Porter Jr. Just before the midway mark on a scrum after the whistle, Jackson Caller and Lukas Sillinger got tangled up, before exchanging words and a few punches as both players were sent to the sin bin. In the second half the Vees just couldn't catch a break or a bounce as James Porter Jr caught a few bounces, as the puck just rolled through the crease or just missed the far post. Penticton with a few goal mouth scrambles, kept banging away at the loose puck, just couldn't get the puck to find it's way through bodies and into the back of the net. With about four and a half minutes remaining, Matt Kowalski setup "AP" Carter Streek on an odd man rush, but Carl Stankowski come across the blue paint to make a large pad save, keeping this a one goal game. A great chance for Vernon to extend there lead. With the Vees pressing late, Penticton couldn't corral the puck before Matt Kowalski setup Seiya Tanaka-Campbell who patiently outwaited the Vees defender before spotting Trey Taylor who joined the rush, beat Carl Stankowski on the breakaway going post and in, giving Vernon a 2-0 lead at 18:06 sending the fans inside Kal Tire Place into a frenzy on a play I don't think many fans or even the Vipers knew if the puck had gone in as the Vipers were having technical difficulties with the goal light at that end of the rink most of the period. The goal light didn't go on before the goal judge was waiving a white towel. Earlier in the period for several minutes the red goal light and the green light period lights were flashing on and off through out the game. A couple of home games ago the Vipers were having the same kind of electrical problems with the goal lights at the other end of the rink. Either way it was 2-0 Vernon. Tanaka-Campbell and Kowalski collected the assists. Shortly after Fred Harbinson and the Vees would call a late timeout before getting Carl Stankowski to the bench for the extra attacker with 1:25 left in the hockey game. With Penticton pressing, Jackson Caller come up with a large shot block before Dawson Holt from his own end of the rink, missed the open cage but inches as Vernon iced the puck. The Snakes would actually miss the open net by just a few inches on three different occasions, on all three shots the Vipers would be called for icing. Vernon was able to slowly wind down the clock and get a few blocks inside the final minute, as the crowd come to there feet in the dying seconds as Vernon hung on for the 2-0 victory. As the Vipers jumped over the boards to celebrate the win, former Vernon Vipers forward Tyler Ho and a second Penticton Vee player were in the corner mixing things up as tempers heated up at the buzzer. The officials quickly jumped in, breaking the teams up while the Vees were exchanging words with the Vipers on there way off the ice. For a second straight period it was all Penticton. I don't think the Vees dominated the play/period like they did in the middle frame, but they sure carried a lot of the play. Penticton saw a lot of action in the offensive zone, were strong with and without the puck, had several good looks/quality chances but again just couldn't find the back of the net, or should I say solve James Porter Jr. The Vees didn't catch a break or have any puck luck as the Vipers get lucky on a few plays in and around the front of the net. The Snakes saw a lot of time in there own end but at the same time I thought Vernon dug deep and played with a little more grit and determination down the stretch. I saw the Vipers grinding out some shifts, battling hard along the wall, eating some minutes off the clock etc. Vernon also did create/generate a few looks/chances, may have not got many pucks to the net, but were at least trying to be creative and find some kind of offence. Penticton outshot Vernon 11-4.

Top Player's: (Vernon)

Jackson Caller I thought was very solid on the Vipers backend. Was a key piece back there for the Snakes tonight. Come up with a huge shot block inside the final minute. Saw a lot of minutes tonight.

The line of Matt Kowalski (2 assists), Dawson Holt & Carter Streek created/generated most of the Vipers opportunities. Vernon really had a hard time gaining any kind of traction, had troubles getting across the red line but these three seemed to find ways to try and create/generate chances.

Connor Sleeth Didn't get on the scoreboard but it wasn't for a lack of trying. Sleeth has been a huge bust this season but in some games, I can see that upside to his game. He has the skill and speed but for whatever reason, has struggled playing in Vernon and the BCHL this season. I thought played well in the win tonight. Really used his speed, had two opportunities to go in for the breakaway but either was chased down or couldn't connect on the puck/pass. I thought worked hard and battled tonight.

Brett Fudger Was another kid who didn't register a point but was a warrior along the boards. Played with some grit, battled and competed all night. Did a lot of the little things, most fans don't see in a hockey game.

Seiya Tanaka-Campbell (1 goal & 1 assist) Scored his first career BCHL goal in just his third game with the Snakes. Attended the Vipers training camp was one of the last cuts, has been an affiliated player with the Vipers this season. This kid really impressed me in training camp, has some wheels and hockey smarts. Knows where the puck is at all times. Is dangerous with and without the puck. A very smart play and move to create/setup Trey Taylor on Vernon's second goal.

James Porter Jr (42 saves/Shutout) Picked up his first career BCHL shutout. After losing his first four games has now won back to back games and improves to 4-2 this season. If it wasn't for James Porter Jr tonight, this game would have not even been close. Porter Jr was dialed in and solid between the pipes for the Snakes. He kept Vernon in the hockey game all night. Porter Jr was also lucky at times, had some help from the hockey gods, got some pucks to bounce his way this evening.

Game Thought's: (Vernon)

Tonight's game and home & home series with the Penticton Vees looked to be one heck of a series this weekend, that was before the Vipers lost several players to injury or sickness. The Snakes with eight players out of the lineup tonight, were forced to call up five "AP"s/affiliated players. The Vipers were outplayed and dominated for most of tonight's game, heavily relied on James Porter Jr who made 42 saves for the win/shutout. The Snakes were very lucky at times, had the bounces and puck luck go there way the entire game. The Vees were the better of the two teams in the 1st period, but the Vipers did play well now and again. It was the 2nd and 3rd periods where Penticton dominated the play and outplayed Vernon in the final two periods. The Vipers really struggled clearing the zone/getting out of there own end. Vernon either coughed up the puck or turned over the puck on numerous times through out the game and still managed to shutout the Penticton Vees. The Snakes struggled getting across the red line and gaining any kind of traction. The Vipers couldn't sustain any kind of pressure or zone time in the offensive zone. It was one shift and out. Vernon had troubles getting pucks to the net. With eight regulars out of the lineup and five affiliated players in the lineup, Vernon struggled offensively and had troubles creating/generating chances. The Vipers saw a lot of time in there own end, were basically hanging on by a thread for minutes at a time. The Vipers were chasing the Vees all night and somehow managed to get out of each period without giving up a single goal. It's gotta be very difficult to play with a new line mate and one that's making the jump from Junior B. All four Viper lines were mixed up due to the five affiliated players in the lineup. Four of the five kids did there best and tried hard but at times were no match for the Vees. Out of the five I thought Seiya Tanaka-Campbell, Isaac Suppin and Noah Leibl played well at times. When I arrived at the rink and first heard the Vipers were without eight regulars, I didn't think Vernon had a chance. This is why they play the game. Vernon had no business being in tonight's game and no business even having a chance to win. If it wasn't for James Porter Jr Penticton could have easily won 10-2. Give the boys credit for battling, hanging in there and holding on for the win and the two points on a night when I don't think many fans even gave them a chance. With the Vipers playing most of the remainder of the season at home, these home games are huge. How big is tonight's win? This was a huge test and could be a huge turning point in the Snakes season. These kinds of games/wins build character and bring teams together more then people know. The Vipers better not get too excited because tomorrow's game in the Peach City in front of a large hostile environment is going to be even bigger then tonight's game. Expect a large rowdy crowd at the South Okanagan Events Centre tomorrow. The Vipers have three real big games before the Christmas break. The Vipers have won five straight. With the win Vernon improves to 19-12-1-1 move into 3rd place are tied in points with 4th place Salmon Arm. The Vipers are two points ahead of 5th place Wenatchee and six points back of 2nd place Trail.

Top Player's: (Penticton)

Evan McIntyre Was solid on the Vees blueline. Played very well at both ends of the rink. Joined the rush/play. A big kid who can play at both ends of the rink.

Nico Somerville recently acquired from the Victoria Grizzlies is a very nice addition. I really liked his game and style. Was physical, finished his checks and laid out a few big hits. Was very good at standing guys up at the blueline.

Danny Weight Very shifty. Can skate, make plays happen and dangerous with and without the puck. Gave Vernon troubles all night. Had several looks/opportunities through out the game. Wasn't very good on the draw but very skilled.

David Silye The Vees captain was another kid who has wheels, was all over the ice in the Vees loss tonight. Was hard to contain and defend against, gave the Snakes all kinds of trouble. A very smooth skater, can move the puck and make things happen in a hurry.

Liam Malmquist Was another Penticton forward who caught my attention. A bigger body who can skate, move the puck and create/generate plays. Had several looks/opportunities tonight.

Carson Kosobud A big strong d-man that is hard to beat one on one. Has a heavy shot and likes to get pucks to the net, is very solid on the backend.

Game Thought's: (Penticton)

The visiting Penticton Vees fully deserved more then a loss tonight. The Vees dominated and outplayed the hometown Vipers for most of the game. It was basically all Penticton other then a few shifts from time to time in the 1st period. The Vees carried most of the play, had a ton of puck possession, looked to have the puck on a string through out most of the evening. Penticton had a ton of good looks/quality chances couldn't beat James Porter Jr who was the difference in tonight's game. The Vees couldn't catch a break or get any bounces go there way. It was the Snakes who got lucky at times, were the team who caught the bounces and got some extra help. Penticton is very quick, has a ton of team speed, can move the puck in a hurry, has a quick transition game, is very hard to contain and defend against. The Vees look to have some very quick, yet skilled forwards but also allow the d-men to get involved in the play. The Vees could have easily had at least eight goals if it wasn't for Vernon's goaltending. In the 2nd period at times it was like watching men against boys. The Vees may want to try and get a few more bodies in front of Vernon's goaltender and play a little more in the grey area. Penticton did almost everything right tonight, but managed to lose. Give credit to the Vees, who for a team couldn't buy a goal, I didn't see any frustration on the faces of the players. This team looks to be very confident and plays with a ton of confidence. From the 2nd period on I was just waiting for the Vees to eventually get on the scoreboard and then take the lead minutes later, as in past year's that seems to be the normal. Over the years how many times have I seen the Vees tie the game late and then score the overtime winner or tie the game and then grab the lead a few minutes later. Vees goaltender Carl Stankowski was facing his former team for the first time. Stankowski never played a game with the Vipers, but the Snakes held his rights before being traded to Penticton October 23rd 2019. I was very surprised to see no Vees fans in attendance. Maybe there was a few and I missed them, but overall the Vees faithful travel well on the road. The Snakes snapped Penticton's two game winning streak. These two teams will meet again Saturday in Penticton and again on New Years Day in Vernon. The Vees have won three of there last five are 5-5 in there last ten games. With the loss Penticton falls to 25-10-1-0 sit atop the Interior division are five points up on Trail and eleven points up on Vernon.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Landon Fuller (Suspended)
Christian Felton (Injured)
Ben Sanderson (Injured)
Connor Marritt (Sick)
Logan Cash (Injured)
Cameron MacDonald (Injured)
Ryan Shostak (Injured)
Elan Bar-Lev-Wise (Sick)
Max Palaga (Injured-Out for the season)

Penticton:

Cade Webber
Jay O'Brien
Steve Holtz

Energy Player of the Game:

Brett Fudger

Three Star's:

1st Star: James Porter Jr (42 saves-Shutout)
2nd Star: Seiya Tanaka-Campbell (1 goal & 1 assist)
3rd Star: Matt Kowalski (2 assists)

I have picked a victory song for the Vernon Vipers this season. After every Vipers win this year, I will play Tarzan Boy by Baltimora,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_r0n9Dv6XnY

Boxscore-Game Summary,

https://bchl.ca/stats/game-summary/9470

Game Report,

https://lscluster.hockeytech.com/game_reports/official-game-report.php?lang_id=1&client_code=bchl&game_id=9470

Text Boxscore,

https://lscluster.hockeytech.com/game_reports/text-game-report.php?lang_id=1&client_code=bchl&game_id=9470

Please feel free to leave a suggestion or comment in the comment box below. I always enjoy and post all comments. Thank you for your comments and visiting my blog.

Here are some photo's I took before and during tonight's Vipers-Vees game.

VERNON – Vernon Viper affiliate player Seiya Tanaka-Campbell scored his first BCHL goal in a 2-0 victory over the high flying Penticton Vees.  Tanaka-Campbell’s Lake City Goal Of The Game came in the first two minutes of the opening period to give the Vipers an early 1-0 lead.  The Vipers would get some great goal-tending to hold on for the win.

The Vernon vipers defeated the Penticton Vees with 2-0. It was a gritty win for the Snakes who were missing 8-regular players. Graham Turnbull talks to Coach Jason McKee as well as Seiya Tanaka-Campbell and James Porter Jr.

Vernon (19-12-1-1) @ Penticton (25-10-1-0) 6pm
Yaniv Perets (1-1 Record-Shutout)

Carl Stankowski (0-1 Record)

I was born and raised in Vernon, BC and been watching/following Junior hockey in Vernon my entire life. I have had season tickets since 1990 and only missed four Vipers home games since 2009. I have only missed 45 home games in the past thirty years. I'm not a sports journalist, writer, reporter or work for the Vernon Vipers. I do not get paid for this blog and do this blog on my own personal time. I started and created this blog in November 2008 and have over 1.7 million viewers. For anyone who couldn't attend or watch tonight's Vipers game, here are my thought's and views from tonight's game. You may agree or disagree but we all have our own opinion on the game. I try to be professional and give a fare game recap from both sides. Thank you for visiting my blog.

I was at tonight's Vipers-Vees game as Penticton defeated Vernon 4-1 in front of 2,979 fans at the South Okanagan Events Centre.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon: Reilly Herbst
Penticton: Yaniv Perets

To continue reading, Please click the "read more" button below,


1st Period: The Vipers would get off to a good start, controlled the play early before going on an early power play 1:52 into the hockey game. Vernon didn't do much with the man advantage but with about thirty eight seconds left on the PP, Hunter Donohoe's point shot beat Yaniv Perets but not the post as the Snakes come within inches of opening the scoring. Vernon with only one shot on goal with the man advantage as Penticton kills off the minor. Just over five minutes in, Connor Sleeth with some wheels, tried beating his defender one on one before taking a shot from the circle, that forced Yaniv Perets into making a big stop on a good chance for the Snakes. Sleeth stayed with the play, ended up getting the puck back shortly after and tried beating Yaniv Perets on the wrap around as Sleeth with back to back opportunities. Minutes before the halfway mark Darwin Lakoduk with a shot from the high slot looked to fool Reilly Herbst, just missing the far corner. The Vipers were outshooting the Vees 6-1 at the midway mark. The hometown Vees seemed to find some energy and slowly get going before Conner Hutchison's shot from well out went in and off the post on a shot that looked to screen Reilly Herbst, giving Penticton a 1-0 lead at 11:56 Ethan Martini and Tristan Amonte picked up the assists. Minutes later with the Vees pressing, the son of former NHLer Scott Niedermayer, Jackson Niedermayer with a good look/chance in front would be denied by Reilly Herbst. With about three and a half minutes remaining, Jackson Niedermayer with another quality chance in front of the net, couldn't solve Reilly Herbst. With less then two minutes remaining, the Vees would get there first look with the man advantage. Reilly Herbst with a big stop early, but inside the final minute the Vees worked the puck around, spotting a wide open David Silye who was able to walk in and rip it past Reilly Herbst, giving Penticton a 2-0 lead at 19:34 Evan McIntyre & Jackson Niedermayer collected the helpers. This was a tough goal to give up inside the final minute. It was 2-0 Penticton after 20 minutes of play. I really liked Vernon's game early and thought the Snakes were the better team in the first ten minutes. The Vipers had lots of jump/energy, carried a lot of the play and had more puck possession. The Vipers had a few looks/opportunities, hit the post on an early power play were outshooting Penticton 6-1 at the halfway mark. Right around the midway mark, the Vees started to get there legs going, and found there game. Penticton was the better team in the second half and carried a lot of the play. The Vees had a lot of zone time and created a few chances from in and around the slot. As the period continued you could see Penticton get better as the game went on. A late power play goal was huge for the Vees and a killer for Vernon late inside the final minute of play. You never like to give up a goal early in a period or late in a period. Instead of being down a goal, the Vipers were now down two heading into the second period. Penticton outshot Vernon 9-8.

2nd Period: The Vees with a strong start, jumped on Vernon early. With pressure in the offensive zone, Penticton worked the puck around spotting Lukas Sillinger alone in the slot, gave Penticton an early 3-0 lead at 1:37 David Silye and Ethan Martini drew the helpers. Shortly after Reilly Herbst had to be alert to make a big pad stop off the son of former NHLer Tony Amonte, Tristan Amonte on a good read by the Vees forward. Lukas Sillinger took a big hit along the side wall, didn't like the hit, was slow getting up before yelling towards the referee and then slamming his stick against the glass as he skated down the ice. I thought Sillinger was very lucky he didn't pick up a misconduct penalty on the play. The veteran Vees forward skated hard down ice, before taking out his frustration, finishing two checks to finish his shift. Just before the halfway mark, David Silye and Jackson Niedermayer with opportunities, couldn't solve Vernon Vipers starting goaltender Reilly Herbst. Vernon needed ten minutes to record there first shot of the period in a period where it was all Penticton early. The Vipers would get not only there first shot of the middle frame, but three shots all in a row, but none better then Jackson Caller's point shot that found it's way through traffic but not the glove of Penticton Vees starting goaltender Yaniv Perets who flashed the leather. The Vees had some good looks late in the second half, come very close to ramping up the score but either couldn't connect on a pass or just missed the net. With about 2:10 left in the period, the Vees sprung former Vernon Vipers forward Tyler Ho in for the breakaway who would be stopped by Reilly Herbst. Ho had some fire in his belly, facing his former team for the second time this season. It was 3-0 Penticton after 40 minutes of play. The Vees were by far the better team and controlled most of the 2nd period. Penticton outplayed Vernon for most of the first half, as the Snakes saw a lot of action in there own end this period. The Vees with some good looks/opportunities basically put the game away with there third goal early into the period. Giving up the early goal, seemed to take some life out of the Snakes and Vernon looked flat after and for most of the period. The Vipers struggled offensively, had troubles getting across the red line and getting pucks towards the goal. Vernon needed ten minutes to record there first shot of the period. Penticton's defence was standing the Snakes up at the blueline most of the period. Penticton outshot Vernon 11-3.

3rd Period: The Vipers with a strong start, got some pressure and opportunities early. About a minute and a half into the final frame, Dawson Holt down the right wing ripped a low shot that looked to handcuff Yaniv Perets who had troubles finding the puck, while Viper forward/captain Connor Marritt come in pouncing on the rebound couldn't beat the Vees netminder on the second opportunity. Shortly after Brett Fudger on a turnover setup Ben Helgeson who spotted a wide open Logan Cash on an odd man rush. Cash got Vernon on the scoreboard, cutting Penticton's lead to 3-1 at 3:05 Helgeson & Fudger picked up the assists. Forty seconds later at the other end of the rink, tempers heated up at the side of Reilly Herbst after some pushing and shoving. A minor scrum broke loose with several players involved. Hunter Donohoe would come out of the pile with a roughing minor, sending the Vees to just there second power play of the evening. This was a BS call! How do the Vipers get a penalty on a play/scrum where almost everyone is involved. You can't tell me a Penticton player also didn't deserve a roughing minor? I didn't like this call. Tristan Amonte with a heavy shot forced Reilly Herbst into making a large save, as Herbst and the Vipers managed to kill off the minor. Just before the midway point, Reilly Herbst was forced into having to make another big stop with the hometown Vees pressing. Carson Kosobud with a heavy shot from the blueline, beat a screened Reilly Herbst, giving Penticton a 4-1 lead at 7:45 Lukas Sillinger & David Silye picked up the assists. At first it looked like the Penticton player standing in front of Reilly Herbst, may have got his stick on the puck. But that wasn't the case as Kosobud was credited with the goal. With about nine minutes remaining, Tyler Ho with some slick moves went in and around at least three Viper defenders before getting behind Vernon's defence couldn't solve Reilly Herbst, who stood tall, making the save. With about six minutes left in the contest, Connor Marritt and Carson Kosobud took a few jabs at one another as the play went on. Tyler Ho then skated over after the whistle and was having words with Logan Cash and Connor Marritt, as tempers were heating up a bit late in the hockey game. Vernon would get a late PP with about four minutes remaining. The Snakes struggled with the man advantage as the Vees killed off the minor. Penticton would come away with the 4-1 victory. I thought the Vipers had a good start but couldn't continue playing with the pace/and momentum, before giving up a fourth goal, that put the game away at that point. The Snakes were able to get more rubber to the net and create/generate a few chances but not enough being down three goals heading into the period. Matt Kowalski didn't see a shift in the final six minutes or so, while the three affiliated players, saw some ice time to finish the game. The Vees carried a lot of the play, played well defensively and did a lot of the little things when leading by three goals. Penticton kept the game pretty simple, didn't give Vernon much time or space to try and climb back into the hockey game. The Vees were the better team. Penticton outshot Vernon 15-10.

Top Player's: (Vernon)

Reilly Herbst (31 saves) Didn't get a lot of help from his group, was forced to make some big stops with the Vees pressing, or this could have been a much different outcome.

Game Thought's: (Vernon)

The Vipers played better after being outplayed and dominated in a 2-0 win at home Friday night. The Snakes played better but not by much. I really liked Vernon's start. I thought the Vipers got off to a quick start, hit the post on an early power play, had some looks/opportunities, were the better team in the first half of the opening frame, but couldn't open the scoring. Vernon outshot Penticton 6-1 in the first half. That's where the game changed. The Vees slowly found there game, started pressing and never really looked back. After outshooting the Vees 6-1 Vernon was outshot 8-2 to finish that 1st period. The Snakes were outplayed for most of the 2nd period, didn't look good. Vernon with a good start to the 3rd, had some jump, got on the board early to get within two goals but that didn't last very long. The Vipers struggled offensively most of the hockey game. The Snakes had troubles getting across Penticton's blueline, were stood up more times then none. The Vipers had troubles creating/generating chances, getting pucks to the net and getting through the Vees defence. The Snakes just didn't have it tonight and like last night, were chasing Penticton a lot of the night. The Vipers were trailing all night and couldn't gain much traction in or for a comeback. The Vipers had troubles defending against the Vees top unit. David Silye's power play goal late in the 1st period was a killer. Giving up a late goal is always tough but in a period where the Vipers had a good first half, If they could have got to the intermission only down a goal, maybe we see a bit of a different 2nd period? Lukas Sillinger's goal at 1:37 into the middle frame basically put the game away. Down 3-0 on the road in a tough rink vs a team that usually is hard to beat on home ice, your chances are slim. This wasn't a good weekend for the Vipers. Yes they got the win and two points Friday but the team was outplayed, out chanced and not in either of both games. Vernon did get back Connor Marritt & Logan Cash who didn't play in the win Friday. Was Matt Kowalski injured? He was on the bench but I didn't see him take a shift in the final six minutes at least. Missing six regulars hurt the Vipers this weekend. Vernon is missing some key players due to illness/injury. I was very surprised to see a very small amount of Viper fans in attendance. I spotted maybe seven to eight Viper fans at the game. The Snakes have one game remaining before the Christmas break. Trail is in Vernon Wednesday. The Vipers with a missed opportunity tonight, had a chance to move two points ahead of Wenatchee and Salmon Arm and get to within four points of Trail. Vernon plays eleven of there next fifteen games at home. The Vipers need to take advantage of some home cooking. The Vees snapped the Vipers five game winning streak. With the loss, Vernon falls to 19-13-1-1 sit 3rd in the Interior division are tied in points with Salmon Arm & Wenatchee. The Vipers are six points back of Trail and thirteen points back of division leading Penticton.

Top Player's: (Penticton)

Nico Sommerville I thought played very well in the loss in Vernon, had another solid night on the Vees backend. I really like this kid, what a great addition for Penticton.

David Silye (1 goal & 2 assists) The Vees captain lead by example in a three point night. Was hard to contain and defend against in both games over the weekend. A very smooth skating forward who reads the ice well, is always buzzing with and without the puck. Very skilled and dangerous.

Tyler Ho Started the season with the Western Hockey League Saskatoon Blades before signing with the Vees October 23rd. The former Vipers forward was ready to go tonight, played with a lot of jump/energy. Was stopped on a 2nd period breakaway and then got behind Vernon's defence in the 3rd before being stopped. Was in the face of the Snakes through out the game. Was involved in the after the whistle activities, exchanging words with several Vipers. Played with a lot of determination tonight. I really liked his game.

Ethan Martini (2 assists) The former Trail Smoke Eaters defenceman looked strong on Penticton's blueline. Played very well in the 4-1 victory.

Jackson Niedermayer (1 assist) I thought was one of the more dangerous forwards. Had some good looks/opportunities, was in and around the front of Vernon's net all evening. Was another kid who gave the Viper defence troubles. Was hard to contain and defend against.

Lukas Sillinger (1 goal & 1 assist) Looked good/Played very well in the win. This kid seems to be very consistent and brings the same type of effort and game to his game night in and night out. Isn't the biggest kid but is physical at times, finishes his checks and isn't afraid to take a hit to make a play. Was in the face of the Vipers on a few shifts tonight.

Tristan Amonte (1 assist) Had some looks/chances, played well.

Yaniv Perets (20 saves) Stopped all fifteen Vernon shots in a 1-0 Vees victory at the BCHL Showcase October 4th in Penticton, wasn't tested often but was forced to make a few big stops in the victory tonight. On at least two Vernon shots, Perets looked to have a little trouble controlling the rebound/puck but recovered quickly to make the stop on the second opportunity.

Game Thought's: (Penticton)

After losing 2-0 in Vernon Friday in a game where they outshot the hometown Vipers 42-18 responded with a hard earned 4-1 win on home ice Saturday. The Vees fully deserved the win in Vernon but couldn't solve James Porter Jr. Tonight, Penticton opened the scoring and forced the Vipers to chase. Penticton played well with the lead and didn't give the Vipers much. The Vees with two big goals changed the outlook on the hockey game. The 2nd goal on the power play, inside the final minute of the 1st period and the Vees 3rd goal inside the first two minutes of the 2nd period. If Penticton doesn't score these goals, its only 1-0 with two periods to go. Instead the Vees jump out to a 3-0 lead at home vs a team with six regulars out of the lineup and a Viper team that up until last weekend has had troubles scoring this season. Lukas Sillinger's goal early into the middle frame, basically put the game away. I didn't think Penticton dominated the game tonight, like they did in the loss Friday, but the Vees were the better of the two teams. Penticton's top unit was hard to contain and defend against. The Vees are quick, have a good transition game and dangerous with there speed and skill but also shut you down with there defence. The Vees carried a lot of the play, had more puck possession and limited Vernon's time and space. Give a ton of credit to the Vees defence. Fred Harbinson only going with five d-men tonight, got a strong outing in the loss in Vernon and again tonight. It seemed like the Vees defenders were standing the Snakes up at the blueline on almost every rush. Vernon had troubles getting across the red line and into the offensive zone, thanks to a strong d-core tonight. I thought the Vees found holes in Vernon's game tonight and made them pay capitalizing on there chances tonight. The Vees looked like a focused group tonight and played a hard fought game. The season series is tied 2-2 with Penticton playing in Vernon New Years Day. A large crowd on hand for tonight, in a building that has a great atmosphere. I always enjoy coming to Penticton and watching the Vipers play at the SOEC. By far the best rink in the league. The Vees have two games remaining before the Christmas break. The Vees have won three of there last five and are 5-5 in there last ten games. With the win Penticton improves to 26-10-1-0 sit atop the Interior division are seven points back of league leading Coquitlam.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Landon Fuller (Suspended)
Christian Felton (Injured)
Ben Sanderson (Injured)
Cameron MacDonald (Injured)
Ryan Shostak (Injured)
Elan Bar-Lev-Wise (Sick)
Max Palaga (Injured-Out for the season)

Penticton:

Cade Webber
Jay O'Brien
Steve Holtz

Energy Player of the Game:

Tyler Ho

Three Star's:

1st Star: David Silye (1 goal & 2 assists)
2nd Star: Lukas Sillinger (1 goal & 1 assist)
3rd Star: Ethan Martini (2 assists)

Boxscore-Game Summary,

https://bchl.ca/stats/game-summary/9473

Game Report,

https://lscluster.hockeytech.com/game_reports/official-game-report.php?lang_id=1&client_code=bchl&game_id=9473

Text Boxscore,

https://lscluster.hockeytech.com/game_reports/text-game-report.php?lang_id=1&client_code=bchl&game_id=9473

Please feel free to leave a suggestion or comment in the comment box below. I always enjoy and post all comments. Thank you for your comments and visiting my blog.

Here are some photo's I took before and during tonight's Vipers-Vees game.

Here are the game highlight's from the Penticton Vees/Vernon Vipers game Saturday, December 13th in Penticton. The hometown Vees jumped out to a 3-0 lead were up 2-0 after the 1st period and 3-0 after two periods. David Silye (1 goal & 2 assists), Lukas Sillinger (1 goal & 1 assist) & Ethan Martini (2 assists) lead the way for the Vees. Logan Cash scored Vernon's lone goal, while Yaniv Perets made 20 saves in the win as Penticton defeated Vernon 4-1 in front of 2,979 fans at the South Okanagan Events Centre.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tR6VnaMPreU

Arrangements entrusted to Alternatives Funeral & Cremation Services. Vernon 250-558-0866 & Armstrong 250-546-7237

Trail (21-13-2-1-1) @ Vernon (19-13-1-1) 7pm
Matteo Paler-Chow (1-0 Record)

I was born and raised in Vernon, BC and been watching/following Junior hockey in Vernon my entire life. I have had season tickets since 1990 and only missed four Vipers home games since 2004. In the past thirty years I have only missed 45 home games. I'm not a sports journalist, writer, reporter or work for the Vernon Vipers. I do not get paid for this blog and do this blog on my own personal time. I started and created this blog in November 2008 and have over 1.7 million viewers. For anyone who couldn't attend or watch tonight's Vipers game, here are my thought's and views from tonight's game. You may agree or disagree but we all have our own opinion on the game. I try to be professional and give a fare game recap from both sides. Thank you for visiting my blog.

I was at tonight's Vipers-Smoke Eaters game as Trail defeated Vernon 4-1 in front of 1,683 fams at Kal Tire Place.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon: James Porter Jr
Trail: Logan Terness

To continue reading, Please click the "read more" button below,


1st Period: The visiting Trail Smoke Eaters got the early jump on the hometown Vernon Vipers and carried the play early. The Vipers were back on there heels and saw a lot of action in there own end early. The Smoke Eaters had the early puck possession, were getting pucks to the net, had two real good looks with James Porter Jr having to be sharp in the first half. The Snakes needed seven minutes to record there first shot of the hockey game. Trail was outshooting Vernon 7-1 at this point in the contest. On the following play, Trail would get the games first power play. The Smokies with some looks, but none better then a shot from the point that found it's way through traffic, went off the mask of James Port Jr and stayed out. The Vipers would kill off the minor. Minutes past the halfway mark, the Vipers would spot second year forward Ben Helgeson at the side of the goal, couldn't capitalize on what looked to be a wide open net in front, on a missed opportunity. The Smokies with a good push back shift, turned the play quickly up ice setting up leading scorer Kent Johnson who would be stopped in front before getting a second chance on the rebound would robbed at the side of the goal, after James Porter Jr come sliding across the blue paint to make an unbelievable pad save off Johnson. On the following play, the Snakes would get there first look with the man advantage. Jackson Caller setup Cameron MacDonald in the slot, beat Logan Terness from the high slot, giving Vernon a 1-0 lead at 13:09 Jackson Caller and Nicholas Kent picked up the assists. About a minute and a half later the Vipers would head back to the PP. Vernon struggled as Trail killed off the penalty. A minute later the Smoke Eaters would get a late power play to finish the 1st period. Trail with a few looks but no real chances as the buzzer would sound before the minor ended. It was 1-0 Vernon after 20 minutes of play. The Smoke Eaters got the early jump and were the better team in the first half. Trail carried a lot of the play, had a lot of puck possession and zone time. The Smokies had some looks and some chances couldn't solve James Porter Jr who was very good between the pipes for Vernon. The Vipers got off to a slow start, were outworked and outplayed for a lot of the first ten minutes. The Snakes finally got there legs going and got some looks/opportunities in the second half, would score the lone goal of the period. The Vipers looked a lot better in the second half. Trail outshot Vernon 12-6.

2nd Period: The Smoke Eaters started the middle frame on the man advantage that was carried over from the opening frame. With only nine seconds left in the PP the Vipers would kill it off. The Snakes with a quick start to the 2nd period. Cameron MacDonald with a quick shot from the circle forced Trail Smoke Eaters starting goaltender Logan Terness to make an early save, before having to make a difficult save off Landon Fuller's shot from the blueline. Two back to back looks/opportunities early for Vernon. Shortly after off a draw in the offensive zone, Jaden Senkoe's quick release/shot beat Vernon Vipers starting netminder James Porter Jr five hole, tying the game 1-1 at 0:57 Max Kryski drew the lone assist. Shortly after Trail would get an early power play and capitalize. The league's leading scorer, Kent Johnson went in and around at least two, maybe three Viper defenders before beating James Porter Jr, giving Trail a 2-1 lead at 1:37 there first lead of the evening on a highlight reel goal. Cody Schiavon and Chase Dafoe collected the helpers. Shortly after the Vipers sprung Matt Kowalski down the right wing, who just fired wide of the far corner on a shot that didn't miss by much. On the following play, Owen Ozar with some slick moves, would be denied by James Porter Jr. Minutes later Walker Erickson with some soft hands, made his way into the offensive zone, forced James Porter Jr into making a big pad save, keeping this a one goal game. Shortly after the Snakes would jump on the PP but couldn't capitalize with the man advantage, as the Smokies killed off the penalty. Minutes later Walker Erickson would be stopped by James Porter Jr but Braden Costello, buried the rebound giving Trail a 3-1 lead at 13:27 Erickson with the lone assist. Just over a minute later the Smoke Eaters would head to the power play, but not for long after having too many men on the ice, sending both teams to four on four and then Vernon to a shortened PP. The Snakes couldn't capitalize as Trail killed off the minor. Shortly after Colby Feist was in for the partial breakaway, looked to have Logan Terness beat, but looked to lose control of the puck towards the end, on a missed opportunity. The Snakes then fired the puck from the corner, went through the crease and out the other side, as the Smokies got lucky that puck didn't hit someone in front and end up in the back on there goal. Towards the end of the period, Dawson Holt was either frustrated or the Smokies were chirping the first year Viper forward as Holt was exchanging words with a handful of players on his way off the ice. It was 3-1 Trail after 40 minutes of play. I thought the Vipers had a good opening shift, had two good looks/opportunities before Trail scored two quick back to back goals to open the period, took the wind out of the sails from the Vipers. The visiting Smoke Eaters were the better of the two teams. The Smokies carried a lot of the play, had more puck possession and more zone time. Trail had several looks/opportunities were also very solid defensively, kept Vernon to the outside and closed the shooting lanes. Trail looked hungry and were hard on pucks, winning the battles, fighting for every inch of ice and did a good job with there sticks. The Smokies were either getting a stick or a body part in the way of Vernon's shots. The Snakes struggled for most of the middle frame and couldn't gain any kind of traction. Vernon looked sluggish and very slow, were a step behind the Smoke Eaters for most of the period. The Snakes struggled offensively, had troubles not only generating some kind of offence but also getting pucks to the net. The Vipers were passing the puck instead of shooting the puck. On several occasions the Snakes were in the right spot, dished the puck off, instead of getting the puck to the goal and looking for a rebound. The Vipers were losing a lot of one on one battles. This wasn't a good period for the hometown Vipers. Trail outshot Vernon 11-7.

3rd Period: The Vipers come out hard and got the early jump on Trail. The Snakes with several looks early couldn't solve Logan Terness. The Smoke Eaters come very close to almost putting this hockey game away just over three minutes in. On some nice passing, Jaden Senkoe would be denied in close off James Porter Jr who had to be sharp was forced to recover and make the second save off Max Kryski. Two big stops by the former Kelowna Rockets netminder, keeping Vernon in the game. Shortly after the Vipers spotted Matt Kowalski alone at the side of the goal, Kowalski fumbled the puck at first before being stopped in close by Logan Terness. Shortly after the Smokies sprung Kent Johnson in for the breakaway, looked to beat James Porter Jr five hole but somehow the puck stayed out. A large save from Porter Jr. Just before the midway mark Vernon would jump on the man advantage but struggle as Matt Kowalski come very close to turning the puck over in front of his own goal, where #7 Max Kryski was ready to pounce on the loose puck. Luckily for Kowalski and the Snakes, James Porter Jr was alert on the play. The Smoke Eaters with a big PK killed off the minor. The Vipers really needed a goal here, to try and climb within a goal. Just as the penalty expired, Viper forward/captain Connor Marritt got the pass from the behind the goal, looked to have Logan Terness looking the other direction, somehow missed what look to be an open cage. I'm not 100% sure but a Trail defender may have got a stick on the play and kept the puck out. With about five and a half minutes remaining the Snakes with a late power play, would call a timeout and once again struggled with the man advantage. Vernon with only one shot on the PP as the Smoke Eaters kill off the penalty. Another massive PK from Trail, keeping this a two goal game. The Vipers can't get James Porter Jr to the bench, due to some strong forechecking from the Smokies. Vernon would finally get Porter Jr to the bench with about 1:45 remaining but had troubles getting in and across the blueline. It wasn't long after, Philippe Lapointe from well out, hit the open cage, giving Trail a 4-1 lead at 19:26 sending fans to the exits. Kent Johnson with the helper. Trail would come away with the 4-1 victory. The Vipers showed up and played a hard fought period were the better team. Vernon carried most of the play, had a lot of puck possession and a lot of zone time. The Snakes who previously had troubles generating offense, had some very good quality chances in the 3rd period but unable to capitalize. Logan Terness may have been lucky at times but you have to be good to be lucky. The Vipers were skating hard, buzzing in and around the goal, had several good looks/opportunities didn't get the bounces or have any puck luck. Trail on the other hand, still managed to generate some opportunities may have saw a lot of the play in there own end, were strong defensively. The Smokies kept Vernon's shooters to the outside and relied on Logan Terness to make the stops when called apon. Shots were 12-12.

Top Player's: (Vernon)

Connor Sleeth Didn't record a point or have any chances but I thought played hard. Was skating hard at both ends of the rink, fighting for pucks, chasing down his man, played with a lot of energy. I know most fans don't like Sleeth but I think he's improved from the start of the season. Sure he's not the goal scorer the Vipers thought they were getting when they made the trade over the summer, but as the season has gone on, he's chipping in with an assist here and there but his overall game has improved. His skating his much better and his overall speed has improved. His little details are what I notice.

Cameron MacDonald (1 goal) Played a strong two way game. Had some looks/chances played hard up front for the Snakes. I have said it several times before, I really like this kid.

Nicholas Kent (1 assist) Was very good at both ends of the rink, was skating, moving the puck up ice, was involved in the play, looked very calm and comfortable on the ice tonight. I thought played very well in the loss.

James Porter Jr (31 saves) It seems like when ever Porter Jr is in goal the Snakes can't produce much offence for this kid. I thought was one of the difference's in tonight's game or this game could have been over well before the 3rd period. The more I see/watch Porter Jr play, the more I like of this kid. He's very calm, never seems to get rattled or taken off his game. Looks calm and confident between the pipes. I thought played very well in the loss this evening.

Game Thought's: (Vernon)

The Vipers played maybe thirty minutes tonight and it cost them a huge game/two points. Coming into tonight the Snakes were only two points back of 3rd place Salmon Arm and six points back of 2nd place Trail with four games in hand. Both teams knew how big tonight's game was but yet the Vipers didn't show up on time. From a fan's point of view, I was very disappointed not only with the game/loss but knowing how big tonight's game was. I can take a loss but not a loss like tonight. The Vipers got off to a slow start, needed seven minutes to record there first shot on goal. I thought Vernon played much better in the second half of the 1st period. The Vipers open the scoring and play well to finish off the opening frame and then don't show up in the 2nd period. The Smokies two quick back to back goals to start the middle frame, took the life out of the Vernon Vipers and the Snakes couldn't recover. The 2nd period cost Vernon the hockey game. The Vipers responded with a much better 3rd period and there best period of the night. Vernon with several looks/opportunities couldn't catch a bounce, didn't have any puck luck, getting numerous opportunities to get within a goal. The Snakes could have easily tied the game and maybe even won the game with the quality chances they had in the 3rd period. I didn't like the Vipers PP not only in the game but especially in the 3rd. Vernon with two power plays in the final frame, have chances to get within a goal, struggled on the man advantage. Leading up to the 3rd period, Vernon had troubles offensively, creating/generating opportunities. The Snakes needed to get more pucks to the goal and generate more offensive chances in the first two periods. The Vipers were losing a lot of the one on one battles, races for the puck and battles in front of the goal. I saw a lot of passengers tonight. The Vipers weren't skating most of the night, were a step behind Trail. I'm sure it's hard for these kids knowing they get to go home for the holidays tomorrow, but you still have a game to play and a big one at that. This was a very disappointing loss for the Vipers. Landon Fuller returned to the lineup after his three game suspension and Christian Felton returned to the lineup after being out with an injury. The Vipers play ten of there next fourteen games at home and need to start taking advantage of home ice. I think Jason McKee & the Vipers waited too long to pull the trigger and make some moves. I said it before, I think the Vipers needed to shake things up and make a big trade at some point along the way during the eleven game road trip back in mid October/mid November. If not then, then sometime before the December 1st card deadline. I think this team/group has got too comfortable and some changes need to be made. Things started to go sideways two weekends ago in Merritt and the team hasn't played well since almost blowing a 7-2 lead in Merritt. The Vipers are lucky they hung on for the win in Merritt and shutout Penticton at home Friday or they would be in a four game losing streak heading into the holidays. Jason McKee didn't sound very pleased with his team and there effort on the post game show. The Vipers have lost back to back games, have won three of there last five and won six of there last ten games. With the loss Vernon falls to 19-14-1-1 remain 4th in the Interior division are tied in points with Wenatchee, two points back of Salmon Arm and now eight points back of 2nd place Trail. The Vipers are off for the holidays and return home to host the visiting Salmon Arm Silverbacks December 28th.

Top Player's: (Trail)

Max Kryski (1 assist) Looked very good, had a strong game in the win over the hometown Vipers. Not the biggest kid but was involved in the play, has some wheels, gave the Vipers defenders troubles. Was always in and around the goal. Created/generated some looks/chances through out the hockey game.

Braden Costello (1 goal) Was another Smokies forward who played well.

Michael Colella Not the biggest kid but wasn't afraid to get involved in the play and hunt for the puck. This kid never quit skating, always had his feet moving, played hard, competed and played with a ton of energy. Had a few looks/opportunities.

Kent Johnson (1 goal & 1 assist) Leads the league in scoring with sixty seven points. This kid is hard to contain and defend against. Had two very good looks/opportunities in the 1st period, was stopped on a 3rd period breakaway, gave the Smoke Eaters there first lead of the night on a highlight reel 2nd period power play goal, added an assist on the empty net goal. A very good skater with skill.

Powell Connor The Vernon, BC native playing in his hometown was solid on Trail's blueline. Finished his checks, was physical at times, was hard to beat one on one.

Logan Terness (24 saves) Wasn't tested often in the first two periods, had to be sharp in the final twenty minutes. With the hometown Snakes pressing, Terness may have got lucky but was forced to make some large saves in a 3-1 hockey game. The Smokies netminder made some big stops in the 3rd to preserve the victory.

Game Thought's: (Trail)

Heading into tonight, Trail had lost four straight on the road and had one win in there last seven road games. With only three wins in there last ten games and a tough and disappointing 7-4 loss in Salmon Arm Sunday afternoon, you knew the Smoke Eaters wanted to finish the road trip on a winning note. Trail was ready to go off the opening faceoff and carried the play early and often. The Smokies were the better team for most of the first two periods and may have been outplayed and out chanced in the 3rd but were solid defensively in the final twenty minutes. The Smoke Eaters fell behind 1-0 but didn't show any panic. Trail with a very good 2nd period, scored two quick back to back goals took there first lead of the night, would add one more to take a 3-1 lead into the 3rd. The Smokies gave up several quality chances in the 3rd but relied on Logan Terness to bail them out. The Smoke Eaters have a fairly big team, are very solid defensively and have the size and skill up front. Trail capitalized on there opportunities and did a great job at limiting the Vipers time and space. The Smokies boxed Vernon out, kept the Snakes to the outside most of the night, closed the shooting lanes, didn't give up a lot if any second opportunities. The Smokies were winning a lot of the battles, one on one races, forced the Vipers into making mistakes and turning over pucks, were hard in on the forecheck and relentless along the boards. Trail blocked a lot of shots with sticks, got sticks in the way to either block the puck or make a strong defensive play. Trail looked hungry and looked to want the win/two points more. The Smoke Eaters were ready and come to play and played a very well road game. The Vipers won the first meeting of the season, 3-2 in overtime October 19th with Trail winning the next three games. These two teams will meet again January 17th in Trail. How big was tonight's game? The Smokies move six points ahead of Salmon Arm and eight points ahead of Vernon are only five points back of Penticton. Former NHLers Daniel Briere and Martin Lapointe's sons play for the Smokies. A lot of Trail fans in the building tonight. Penticton Vees play by play man Trevor Miller was in attendance tonight. Miller called games for the Smoke Eaters last season, before joining the Vees in the off season. With the win Trail improves to 22-13-2-1-1 sit 2nd in the Interior division are eight points ahead of Vernon, six points ahead of Salmon Arm and five points back of division leading Penticton.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Ben Sanderson (Injured)
Keigo Hachisuka
Ryan Shostak (Injured)
Max Palaga (Injured-Out for the season)

Trail:

Corey McCann
Tyler Ghirardosi
Jackson Murphy-Johnson

Energy Player of the Game:

Nicholas Kent (1 assist)

Three Star's:

1st Star: Kent Johnson (1 goal & 1 assist)
2nd Star: Cameron MacDonald (1 goal)
3rd Star: Jaden Senkoe (1 goal)

Boxscore-Game Summary,

https://bchl.ca/stats/game-summary/9486

Game Report,

https://lscluster.hockeytech.com/game_reports/official-game-report.php?lang_id=1&client_code=bchl&game_id=9486

Text Boxscore,

https://lscluster.hockeytech.com/game_reports/text-game-report.php?lang_id=1&client_code=bchl&game_id=9486

Please feel free to leave a suggestion or comment in the comment box below. I always enjoy and will post all comments. Thank you for your comments and visiting my blog.

Here are some photo's I took before and during tonight's Vipers-Smoke Eaters game.

This was posted on the Storm website:

VERNON – Viper rookie forward Cam MacDonald returned to the line-up and scored the team’s first goal of the game on the power play to give his team a 1-0 lead over the Trail Smoke Eaters in the 1st period. The Surrey native now has 10 goals on the season. The Vipers dropped a 4-1 decision to the Smokies in the final game before the Christmas break.

Here are the game highlight's from Wednesday's Vernon Vipers-Trail Smoke Eaters game in Vernon. Vernon Vipers forward Cameron MacDonald opened the scoring at 13:09 of the 1st period, before the visiting Trail Smoke Eaters scored four straight goals to knock off the hometown Vipers 4-1. Logan Terness made 24 saves in the win, while James Porter Jr made 31 saves in the loss in front of 1,683 fans at Kal Tire Place.

 https://twitter.com/i/status/1207765665177690112

The freeze means teams aren't allowed to trade players to teams in other CJHL leagues, but they are permitted to still trade within their own leagues.

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=120792

Vernon Viper forward #9 Ben Helgeson won this year's Movember contest by popular vote. Despite shaving off his Mo - Tommy Guns wanted to give him a proper clean-up!

This was posted on the Growlers website: