Wenatchee 8 Vernon 1

February 26, 2016, 11:06 pm

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For anyone who could not attend or watch tonight’s Vipers game here are my thoughts and views from tonight’s game. You may agree or disagree but we all have our own view and opinion on any game we watch. This is my opinion and my thoughts on how I saw tonight’s game. I try to be unbiased and give a fare recap on both sides. Thanks for stopping by & visiting my blog.

I was at tonight's Vipers-Wild game as Wenatchee defeated Vernon 8-1 in front of 2,570 fans at Kal Tire Place.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon: Andrew Shortridge

Wenatchee: Chase Perry

1st Period: The expansion Wenatchee Wild wasted very little time opened the scoring just over two minutes into the game. Bryan Yoon's shot from the blueline was redirected on it's way to the net by Troy Conzo on the Wild's first shot on goal, giving Wenatchee a early 1-0 lead at 2:16 Bryan Yoon & Dakota Raabe collected the assists. The Wild with a very aggressive forecheck early. Less then two minutes later the Vipers responded with a good push back shift. Liam Finlay showed good hustle to stick with the play, ripped a quick back hand from in the slot forced Detroit Red Wings draft pick Chase Perry to make a quick pad save keeping this a one goal game. Back come the Wild on the following shift, Dakota Raabe cut hard to the net was stopped in close by Andrew Shortridge, before Troy Conzo was denied on the rebound before being hauled down, giving Wenatchee the games first powerplay. The Wild wasted little time, with some slick tic tac toe passing Dakota Raabe setup Joe Drabin in front, giving Wenatchee a 2-0 lead at 4:35 Dakota Raabe and August Von Ungern picked up the helpers. Mark Ferner would call a timeout after the goal. Just two minutes later Chase Perry went behind the goal to play the puck, ended up getting tangled up with one of his own defenceman and Riley Brandt, Brandt would get called for interference sending the Wild back to the powerplay. The Vipers fired the puck down the full length of the ice from their own end, may have caught Chase Perry napping, who looked to be coming out of his net to play the puck, when having to retreat back to the crease to make the save, on a close call for the Wild. Blake Christensen down low gave Wenatchee a 3-0 lead on the powerplay at 7:39 Troy Conzo and August Von Ungern with the assists. Wenatchee all over the Vipers at this point. The Wild outshooting Vernon 8-2 and dominating the opening period. Wenatchee with a very strong-aggressive forecheck, either had Vernon hemmed in their own end or shutdown the Vipers offence, giving them all kinds of trouble breaking through the neutral zone. Shortridge was forced to make a quick glove save keeping this a 3-0 game. The Vipers having all kinds of trouble getting any kind of pressure or zone time, played most of the frame in their own end. The Wild carried and dominated the play in the first half. In the second half Blake Christensen with a good quality chance couldn't beat Shortridge. Shortridge then made two big saves off Troy Conzo and Colin Burston. The Vipers who generated very little chances, would get a three on one rush late in the period, Christian Cakebread didn't look to get a good shot off, was stopped by Perry. In the final few minutes Dakota Raabe would give Wenatchee a 4-0 lead at 18:21 August Von Ungern with the lone helper. Seconds later Vernon would get their first powerplay of the night, but a poor pass by Bo Pellah and Odeen Tufton forced Charlie Combs to walk in off the turnover beat Andrew Shortridge gave Wenatchee a commanding 5-0 lead at 19:25 Combs goal was unassisted. The Vipers unable to get anything going with the man advantage would run out of time before the buzzer sounded. Wenatchee was up 5-0 after 20 minutes of play. The Wild jumped on the Vipers early, getting out to a quick 2-0 lead less then five minutes into the opening period, were all over Vernon for the entire 1st period. Wenatchee with a very strong forecheck, attacked the Vipers forcing Vernon into several turnovers through out the frame. The Wild a smooth skating very skilled team, can move the puck, have a very good transition game, schooled the Vipers for most of the period. The Vipers who had just two shots in the first fourteen minutes weren't skating, were caught standing around at times had all kinds of troubles with the Wenatchee forecheck. Vernon struggled offensively couldn't break out of their own end, had troubles getting any kind of pressure or offence going, had very little zone time. The Vipers managed just two quality chances the entire period. Wenatchee outshot Vernon 21-5.

2nd Period: Former Penticton Vees goaltender Brendan Barry started the middle frame, replacing Andrew Shortridge who allowed five goals on twenty one Wild shots. The Vipers started the 2nd period on the man advantage that was carried over from the end of the 1st period. The Wild would kill off the remainder of the penalty before scoring early. Kyle Stephan in front beat Barry down low giving Wenatchee a 6-0 lead at 3:39 Mike Coyne & Colin Burston with the helpers. Shortly after Kyle Stephan left alone in the slot, ripped a high shot that just sailed over Brendan Barry and the Viper goal. The Wild would get an early powerplay and capitalize. Kyle Stephan with a lazer shot went high on Barry giving Wenatchee a commanding 7-0 lead at 4:56 Bryan Yoon and Charlie Combs collected the assists. The Wild with three powerplays, had three PP goals. Up by seven goals the Wild took their foot off the gas, wich turned this game into a pond hockey game. Not a lot of flow or action at either ends of the rink. Even with Wenatchee taking their foot off the gas, the Vipers still had troubles getting much of anything going. Viper captain Colton McCarthy went hard to the net for a loose puck, before Wild starting goaltender Chase Perry come out of his crease before several players all went hard to the net, crashing Perry who was able to hold on to smother the puck-get a stoppage in play. The Vipers would get another opportunity a lot like this play later on during the period but again Perry was alert and able to freeze the puck for a whistle. In the second half Dakota Raabe's shot went in and off Mac Ferner giving Wenatchee a 8-0 lead at 14:04 Troy Conzo with the lone helper. As they say you have to be good to be lucky and that was a lucky bounce-break for the Wild. On the following play, Wenatchee would get their second man advantage of the evening. A very good penalty kill by the Vipers were able to hold off the Wild attack-powerplay for the first time tonight. Wenatchee moved the puck around, couldn't get setup had a few looks down low but other wise a good Vernon penalty kill. With two and a half minutes remaining Carter Stephenson's point shot beat Chase Perry but not the post as the Vipers looking to break Perry's shutout bid. Wenatchee was up 8-0 after 40 minutes of play. This was a much different period as the Wild scored two quick goals jumped out to a 7-0 lead, took their foot off the gas for most of the remainder of the 2nd period. The Vipers were able to get some zone time this frame but not a lot as the Vipers didn't get many chances. Vernon with a few good looks in and around the net but Chase Perry was their for the save. Not a lot of action or flow to this period, made for the looks of a pond hockey game. Wenatchee outshot Vernon 19-12.

3rd Period: Odeen Tufto with a great chance down low couldn't beat Chase Perry who come up with a big save in the opening minutes. The Wild with a strong forecheck, had a few good shifts early before the Vipers would get an early powerplay. Vernon moving the puck around and around, wasted a lot of time passing and not getting shots on goal. The Vipers with a few good looks-chances down low couldn't capitalize with the PP as the Wild killed off the minor. Just before the halfway mark Colton McCarthy would eventually break Chase Perry's shutout bid, spotted the wide open cage on a goal Perry didn't have a chance cutting the Wild lead to 8-1 at 9:56 Mac Ferner and Joe Sacco collected the helpers. Speaking of Joe Sacco, Sacco made a huge defensive play hustled back to make a goal line save after diving behind Brendan Barry stopping a Wenatchee scoring chance. For a second straight period it looked like the Wild took their foot off the gas as Vernon carried the majority of the play-period. The Vipers had some decent scoring chances, their best ones of the night but Perry was very good in the Wild goal. Not a lot of action or real flow to the final frame as fans started making their way to the exists once the 50-50 was announced. Wenatchee would come away with the 8-1 victory. I thought the Vipers played their best period of the night, but its pretty hard to say that when Wenatchee is up 8-1 and has taken their foot off the gas. The Vipers carried most of the play, had lots of pressure and zone time, generated-created their best opportunities of the night, in the 3rd. The Wild didn't generate much pressure or zone time, only had one maybe two good chances didn't get many shots on Brendan Barry. Vernon was the better of the two teams outshot Wenatchee 11-4.

Following the game the Vipers held their annual year end awards banquet on the ice.

Most Popular Player- Riley Brandt
Leading Scorer- Odeen Tufto
MVP- Andrew Shortridge
Rookie Of The Year- Odeen Tufto
Most Sportsmanlike- Liam Finlay
Unsung Hero- Christian Cakebread
Bill Brown Award for Academic Excellence- Brett Stapley
Most Improved- Jimmy Lambert
Blue Liners Academic Scholarship- Mac Ferner
Renee Holland Community Service Award- Jagger Williamson
Wayne Buck Memorial Award- Jagger Williamson

Top Player's: (Vernon)

I didn't think any Viper really stood out-had a decent game.

Game Thought's: (Vernon)

The Vipers come into tonight's game having a ton of confidence facing the Wild after winning in overtime in Wenatchee back in November lost a one goal game to the Wild in Chilliwack back in September at the BCHL Showcase, were blown out tonight by a Wenatchee team that totally dominated tonight's game from top to bottom. This game wasn't even close, the Vipers didn't match up against a much better, stronger, faster, more skilled Wild team that schooled Vernon in the opening 1st period. The Vipers with just two shots in the first fourteen minutes, were no match for the Wild. The Vipers with just two scoring chances in the 1st, had just a handful of opportunities in the 2nd had their best chances in the 3rd. Vernon had troubles with the Wild forecheck all night, couldn't break out of their own end, were shutdown offensively for most of the game. The Vipers were limited to chances, were held to the outside most of the night. Vernon with a win tonight would have clinched the final playoff spot, now need to win their final regular season game in Trail tomorrow night to advance to the playoffs or the season is over. Merrit is now tied with the Vipers for the fourth and final playoff spot after their 5-3 win over Penticton tonight. Trail is a single point back of both Merritt and Vernon. The Centennials host Wenatchee tomorrow night in their final game of the regular season. The Vipers don't have the size, skill or talent to matchup and compete with teams like Wenatchee. It was like the men playing the boys tonight. The Vipers have lacked scoring all season and as of late and it showed again tonight. A great crowd, one of the biggest this season come out for the final regular season home game. 

Top Player's: (Wenatchee)

Blake Christensen (1 goal) I thought played well, was going to the net, digging-working hard in front, had a strong game for the Wild.

Tyler Rockwell Played very well on the Wenatchee blueline, not one of the biggest kids but a good skater, reads-sees the ice well, was very good at both ends of the rink. Saw a lot of ice tonight.

August Von Ungern (3 assists) Was in on three of the Wild's first four goals, made some nice plays to get the goals started. A good skater and puck mover, really sees the ice well.

Dakota Raabe (2 goals & 2 assists) Picked up four points was all over the ice this evening, gave the Vipers all kinds of troubles in the offensive zone, had several good chances-looks at the net. A very smooth skating forward that can move the puck, goes to the net.

Troy Conzo (1 goal & 2 assists) Opened the scoring for Wenatchee, was another kid who gave Vernon defenders troubles. Played on a line with Dakota Raabe was very strong in the win.

Kyle Stephan (2 goals) Scored twice, was another kid who had several chances, was hard to contain and dangerous in and around the net.

Bryan Yoon (2 assists) Was solid on the backend collecting two helpers.

Chase Perry (27 saves) Wasn't tested much but when called apon was solid between the pipes. Perry a bigger goaltender, covers a lot of net, plays big, dosnt give you much room, is quick on his feet, likes to come out of the net a lot.

Game Thought's: (Wenatchee)

The Wenatchee Wild are the best team I have seen play this season. Off the opening faceoff the Wild with a very strong-aggressive foreheck, don't give you any time or space. The Wild are a quick skating team, that can move the puck in a hurry, very crisp passing, with a lot of skill that can make you pay. The Wild don't play a very physical game, stay away from the after the whistle activities, are very well coached & disciplined. This game was basically over after the 1st period, as the Wild took their foot off the gas in the 2nd and 3rd periods. Not a lot of action or much flow to the game in the final two periods. This team looked very good tonight and from top to bottom I think will be hard to beat come playoffs. Wenatchee jumped on the Vipers early and often and basically put the game away less then halfway through the 1st period. The Wild dominated the play-game for most of the night, controlled-carried the majority of the play especially in the first two periods. I watched all the Vipers-Vees games this season, but think the Wild have a little more depth-structure compared to Penticton. A very good powerplay, this team competes-works hard and it showed tonight, even in the 2nd period when they looked to take their foot off the gas, they still were the better team at times. Nice to see a few Wild fans make the trip for tonight's game. 

Scratches:

Vernon:

Latrell Charleson (Injured)

Charley Michalowski (Injured)

Jagger Williamson (Injured)

Wenatchee:

Brandon Puricelli

Austin Chavez

Energy Player of the Game:

Odeen Tufto

Three Stars:

1st Star: Dakota Raabe (2 goals & 2 assists)

2nd Star: Kyle Stephan (2 goals)

3rd Star: August Von Ungern (3 assists)

BCHL Game Summary,

http://bchl.ca/game-summary?game_id=7111

John Meissner's Wenatchee Wild Blog:

http://meissnershockeyblog.blogspot.ca/

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2016 BCHL Award Winners:

February 27, 2016, 7:00 am

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This is posted on the BCHL website:

2016 BCHL Award Winners

February 26, 2016

The votes have been tallied and we now know the winners of the BCHL’s five major individual awards.

A second round of polling of the league’s head coaches was carried out this week and the winners are as follows:

Vern Dye Memorial Trophy (MVP) – Tyson Jost, Penticton Vees

Bruce Allison Memorial Trophy (Rookie of the Year) – Vimal Sukumaran, Chilliwack Chiefs

Top Defenceman Award – Dante Fabbro, Penticton Vees

Bob Fenton Trophy (Most Sportsmanlike) – Colton Kerfoot, Coquitlam Express

Joe Tennant Memorial Trophy (Coach of the Year) – Fred Harbinson, Penticton Vees

Of note, Kerfoot joins his older brother and Express alum Alex Kerfoot in making the second brother tandem to win the Bob Fenton Trophy. Paul and Steve Kariya are the other pair.

For Harbinson, this is his third Coach of the Year trophy but the first time he’s won it since the BCHL went to one winner per award, as opposed to one per conference as was the case up to 2013.

Game Preview: Vernon @ Trail:

February 27, 2016, 7:05 am

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Vernon (23-31-3-0)  @ Trail (23-32-2-0) 7:30pm

Tonight is the seventh and final regular season meeting between the Vernon Vipers & Trail Smoke Eaters. The Vipers lead the season series 4-2

Last Game:

Friday, February 26th Wenatchee defeated Vernon 8-1

Tuesday, February 23rd Trail defeated Salmon Arm 3-2

My game previews take up close to a full page, this is why I have had to shorten the front page.  In order to read the full page-game preview, click on the "read more" near the bottom left corner of this post.

Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon is 69-18-1-3 vs. Trail

Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon has outscored Trail 393-219

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 35-6-0-2 at home vs. Trail

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 27-10-1-1 in Trail

The Vipers are 7-3-0-0 in their last ten games In Trail

The Vipers are 8-1-0-1 in their last ten home games vs. Trail

Vernon's last win in Trail was a 3-2 double overtime victory on Saturday, January 23rd 2016

Trail's last win at home vs Vernon was a 6-3 win on Wednesday, December 16th 2015

Trails last win in Vernon was a 5-3 win on Friday, September 11th 2015

Vernon's last win at home vs Trail was a 5-2 win on Friday, October 30th 2015

The Vipers went 7-0-0-0 vs Trail last season

Lets take a look at the Vernon Vipers:

The Vernon Vipers make their fourth and final regular season visit to the Cominco Arena are coming off a 8-1 loss to the visiting Wenatchee Wild last night. The Vipers have won two of the three games in Trail this season, only loss at the Cominco Arena was a 6-3 loss December 16th. Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon is 69-18-1-3 vs. Trail. The Vipers playing in their final regular season game, can clinch a playoff spot for a second straight season with a win tonight, a loss and the Vipers season comes to an end. Vernon has just two wins in their last nine games, have lost four straight on the road. The Vipers and Merritt are tied for 4th in the Interior Division are both a point up on Trail.

Odeen Tufto (24-39-63) leads the the team in goals with twenty four and in points with sixty three.

Riley Brandt played in 36 games with the Smokies during (2012-2014)

Colton McCarthy played in three games with Trail during the 2012-13 season

Graham Turnbull's Vernon Vipers Venom Blog

http://vipersvenom1.blogspot.ca/

Vernon Vipers 2015-16 regular season Stats:

Games Played: 57
Wins: 23
Losses: 31
Ties: 0
Overtime Losses: 3
Home Record: 13-14-0-2
Road Record: 10-16-0-2
Overtime Record: 4-4
Record vs Interior Division: 11-21-0-3
Record vs Island & Mainland Divisions: 12-9-0-1
When the Vipers score first: 10-7-0-2
When the opponents score first: 13-24-0-1
Leading after 1st Period: 10-4-0-2
Tied after 1st Period: 5-9-0-0
Trailing after 1st Period: 9-18-0-1
Leading after 2nd Period: 13-2-0-1
Tied after 2nd Period: 6-6-0-1
Trailing after 2nd Period: 4-23-0-0
Out shooting Opponents: 12-8-0-2
Out shot by Opponents: 10-23-0-1
One goal games: 7-7-0-3
Record in September: 3-3-0-1
Record in October: 6-6-0-0
Record in November: 4-6-0-1
Record in December: 3-5-0-1
Record in January: 5-4-0-0
Record in February: 2-7-0-0
Goals For: 172
Goals Against: 204
Place: 4th Place (Tied with Merritt)
Streak: One game losing streak
Longest winning streak this year: Four games
Longest losing streak this year: Six games

Vernon Vipers Returning Players:

Liam Finlay (97)
Jagger Williamson (98)
Colton McCarthy (96)
Riley Brandt (96)
Mitchell Oliver (97)
Nic Rasovic (96)

Vernon Vipers Departing & traded players from last years team:

Liam Coughlin (94)
Anthony Latina (94)
Blaine Caton (97)
Linden Hora (96)
Nicholas Rasovic (96)
TJ Dumonceaux (94)
Luke Shiplo (95)
Luke Voltin (95)
Brandon Egli (94)
Jarrod Schamerhorn (95)
Mitch Meek (96)
Johhny Coughlin (95)
Kenny Citron (95)
Riley Guenther (94)
Mackenzie Bauer (96)
Danny Todosychuk (94)

Vernon’s Home record vs. Trail this season:

2-1-0-0

Vernon’s Road record vs. Trail this season:

2-1-0-0

Vernon’s scoring leaders vs. Trail this season:

Colton McCarthy (5-4-9)
Riley Brandt (4-4-8)

Odeen Tufto (2-5-7)
Jagger Williamson (0-6-6)
Liam Finlay (4-2-6)

Jimmy Lambert (2-2-4)

Joe Sacco (2-2-4)

Bo Pellah (0-4-4)
Steven Jandric (1-2-3)
Callum Volpe (1-1-2)

Mitchell Oliver (0-2-2)

Christian Cakebread (0-2-2)
Hunter Zandee (1-0-1)
Brett Stapley (0-1-1)
Darren Rizzolo (0-1-1)

Latrell Charleson (0-1-1)

Andrew Shortridge (3-2 Record)

-Vernon has the leagues 6th best powerplay

-The Vipers have the leagues 14th best penalty kill

 

Lets take a look at the Trail Smoke Eaters:

The Trail Smoke Eaters are coming off a 3-2 win over the visiting Salmon Arm Silverbacks Tuesday keeping their playoff hopes alive. The Smoke Eaters playing in their final regular season game tonight, with a win will clinch the fourth and final playoff spot. Trail is 2-3-1-0 vs Vernon this season. Since the 2003-04 regular season Trail is 11-27-0-1 at home vs the Vipers. The Smokies have won three straight and three of their last five are 4-6-0-0 in their last ten games. The Smoke Eaters have won three of their last five home games sit 6th in the Division are a single point back of Vernon & Merritt for 4th place.

Kienan Scott (24-15-39) leads the team in goals with twenty four, while Nick Hallloran (21-24-45) leads the team in points with fourty five.

Blaine Caton played last season with the Vipers

Trail Smoke Eaters 2015-16 regular season Stats:

Games Played: 57
Wins: 23
Losses: 32
Ties: 0
Overtime Losses: 2
Home Record: 15-12-1-0
Road Record: 8-20-1-0
Goals For: 169
Goals Against: 244
Place: 5th Place
Streak: Three game winning streak

Trail Smoke Eaters Returning Players:

Connor Brown-Maloski (96)
Jake Kauppila (95)
Cooper Leitch (96)
Jeremy Lucchini (97)
Evan MacEachern (95)
Max Newton (97)
Harlan Orr (95)
Kienan Scott (96)
Ryan Swanson (95)

Trail Smoke Eaters Departing & traded players from last years team:

Charlie Zuccarini (94)
Craig Martin (95)
Bryan Basilico (95)
Conner Wynne (95)
Dexter McLeod (96)
Stephen Penner (95)
Robert Johnson (98)
Sheldon Brett (96)
Bryan Gerstenfeld (95)
Jordan Passmore (96)
Adam Todd (94)
Brett Clark (95)

Trail’s Home record vs. Vernon this season:

1-1-0-1

Trail’s Road record vs. Vernon this season:

1-2-0-0

Trail’s scoring leaders vs. Vernon this season:

Jake Kauppila (2-3-5)
Nick Halloran (3-2-5)

Kienan Scott (3-1-4)

Kale Howarth (1-3-4)
Jeremy Lucchini (0-3-3)

Max Newton (1-2-3)

Mitchell Stapley (0-2-2)
Harlan Orr (1-1-2)

Connor Brown-Malowski (1-1-2)

Kyle Star (1-1-2)
Ross Armour (0-2-2)
Evan MacEachern (0-2-2)
Cooper Sande (0-1-1)
Ryan Swanson (0-1-1)
Cooper Leitch (1-0-1)
John Laurito (0-1-1)

Bailey MacBurnie (2-4 Record)

-Trail has with the leagues 8th best powerplay

-The Smoke Eaters have the league's 11th best penalty kill

Here's a look at both teams rosters:

Vernon Vipers:

http://bchl.ca/roster?team=21

Trail Smoke Eaters:

http://bchl.ca/roster?team=22

Vernon 7 Trail 2

February 27, 2016, 9:57 pm

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Scoring Summary:

1st Period:

1:16 TRA Bennett Morrison (3) ASST: Max Newton 
7:41 VER Jimmy Lambert (15) ASST: Bo Pellah, Liam Finlay 
9:46 VER Liam Finlay (15) ASST: Ben Butcher, Mitchell Oliver 
12:33 VER Liam Finlay (16) ASST: Christian Cakebread, Bo Pellah 
15:09 VER Odeen Tufto (25) ASST: Jimmy Lambert, Christian Cakebread 

2nd Period:

9:17 VER Colton McCarthy (21) ASST: Carter Stephenson, Bo Pellah 
17:57 VER Nicholas Rasovic (1) ASST: None 

3rd Period:

6:15 VER Liam Finlay (17) ASST: Odeen Tufto, Bo Pellah 
14:25 TRA Kale Howarth (12) ASST: Evan MacEachern, Cooper Leitch 

Trail outshot Vernon 36-28 Andrew Shortridge made 26 saves in the win, while Bailey MacBurnie made 14 saves in the loss.

BCHL Game Summary,

http://bchl.ca/game-summary?game_id=7120

Vipers’ Season On Line In Trail:

February 28, 2016, 7:00 am

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This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers’ season on line in Trail

by Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star

Feb 27, 2016

Three teams, two games, one spot.

That’s what Saturday night in the B.C. Hockey League’s regular season boiled down to in the Interior Division for the Vernon Vipers, Trail Smoke Eaters and Merritt Centennials.

Each still alive for the final playoff spot with their final game to be played; the Vipers in Trail, where they were 1-2 against the Smoke Eaters at Cominco Arena this season; and the Centennials hosting the Wenatchee Wild, the U.S. expansion team who finished second  in the Mainland Division, and who went into Kal Tire Place Friday and handed the Vipers their worst home-ice loss of the season, putting up a snowman in an 8-1 victory.

Vernon could have clinched the last spot Friday.

“It was obviously disappointing,” said a dejected Vipers head coach Mark Ferner. “We knew the importance of the game and, for whatever reason, we just came out flat.

“I’m sure our guys are a little embarrassed and disappointed about tonight (vs Wild). Our fans deserved a better effort and we didn’t get it.”

If the Vipers won Saturday, they would get the final spot and a date with the league champion Penticton Vees in the opening round of the post-season starting Friday. Lose either in regulation or  overtime, and the Vipers would be done.

“We need one win to get in the playoffs,” said Ferner. “I have enough confidence in this group that we’re going to go into Trail and put forward a real good effort.”

The Centennials kept their playoff hopes alive Friday, scoring five unanswered goals in an 11-minute stretch in the third period to stun the Vees 5-3 at the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena.

The Wild, who have already clinched second place in the Mainland Division and will play the Langley Rivermen in the first round, scored twice Friday in the first five minutes. They stretched the lead to 5-0 after one, chasing Vipers starter Andrew Shortridge who was replaced by Brendan Barry, and led 8-0 after two.

“We’re treating our last two games like they’re playoff games,” said Wild forward Kyle Stephan, a Barrie, Ont. native and one of four Canadians on the Wild roster.

“It’s playoff games for the teams we’re playing against so coming in with that same mindset is good and it paid off tonight, for sure.”

Colton McCarthy finally gave the fans something to cheer about at 9:56 of the opening period when the Vipers captain found himself alone in front of goalie Garrett Nieto, took a pass from defenceman Mac Ferner and made a nifty deke to beat Nieto.

Prior to that, the biggest cheer from the 2,578 fans at the final regular season home game came in the second intermission, when not one but two frisbees were flung into the supersave.ca target at centre ice, resulting in an $800 jackpot split.

Stephan and Dakota Raabe each scored twice for the Wild while singles went to Troy Conzo, Joseph Drabin, Blake Christensen and Charlie Combs.

August Von Ungern, born in Singapore and raised in Eagle, Idaho, a Boise suburb, had three assists.

“We were motivated tonight,” said Von Ungern. “All of the guys were focused on taking the body and making key plays and it paid off.”

Nieto replaced starting goalie Chase Perry, a Detroit Red Wings draft pick, for the third period.
The Wild outshot Vernon 44-28, 40 of those shots coming after 40 minutes. Wenatchee didn’t register its first shot of the third period until the 12-minute mark.

The Vipers played without forwards Charlie Michalowski (upper body injury) and Jagger Williamson (flu), and defenceman Latrell Charleson (hand injury).

Vernon handed out its player awards on the ice after the game (see related story page A18).

There’s one playoff spot to be determined in the Island Division.

The Victoria Grizzlies and Alberni Valley Bulldogs both have 50 points. Victoria lost 6-2 Friday at home to the Powell River Kings and finish the season today in Chilliwack. The Bulldogs had a doubleheader at home with Powell River Saturday and today.

The fourth-place finisher will play the Nanaimo Clippers in the first round while Powell River will face Cowichan Valley. In the Mainland division, Chilliwack will take on Coquitlam and in the Interior, West Kelowna faces Salmon Arm in round one matchups already determined. The Warriors whipped the Silverbacks 6-1 Friday night at Royal LePage Place.

SNAKE BITES: Vernon’s worst home-ice setback prior to Friday was a 6-0 loss to Penticton Jan. 1...The Vipers called up d-man Carter Stephenson from Vancouver Major Midget...Von Ungern played Pee Wee hockey with the Idaho Jr. Steelheads, the same team that lost the final of this year’s 45th annual Coca Cola Classic tournament to the host Vernon Watkin Motors Mustangs...Wild assistant coach Chris Clark was the starting goalie for the Salmon Arm Silverbacks in the first-ever game at Kal Tire Place...A visiting couple from Surrey, outside of London, England, got engaged in Section F in the first intermission.

Shortridge Nets MVP Nod:

February 28, 2016, 7:05 am

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This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Shortridge nets MVP nod

by Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star

Feb 27, 2016

He came to the Vernon Vipers looking to be the team’s No. 1 goalie.

Andrew Shortridge ended up being the club’s best player.

The 20-year-old native of Eagle River, Alaska was named the Vipers’ most valuable player as the club handed out its year-end awards on the ice following Friday’s final regular season home game at Kal Tire Place.

“The term MVP encompasses a number of elements to any team and this player embodies them all,” said Vipers’ play-by-play voice Graham Turnbull, emcee for the presentation.

“He is a great leader and teammate on and off the ice. He was, without question, the most consistent player on the ice giving his team a chance to win every night.”

Going into Friday’s game, Shortridge had a record of 18-24, a 3.08 goals against average and stopped 1,422 of 1,551 shots for a .917 save percentage.

The humble netminder, who had never won a team MVP award before, deflected praise toward his teammates.

“I can’t win it without a team, it’s a team sport first,” said Shortridge. “I can’t win games alone. I can’t tell you how many times there have been game-saving blocks from d-men, forwards, anyone on the team. I was surprised to hear my name called.”

Jagger Williamson and Odeen Tufto were double award winners.

Williamson won the Rienie Holland Community Service Award and the Wayne Buck Memorial Award, which is given to the player honouring hard work and unselfish play.

Tufto won the top scorer and rookie of the year honours. Liam Finlay was named most sportsmanlike player, Christian Cakebreak was the unsung hero, Brett Stapley took the Bill Brown Award for academic excellence and Riley Brandt was named the most popular player. The Sun Valley Source For Sports most improved player was Jimmy Lambert and Mac Ferner won the Blue Liners Academic Scholarship.

The BCHL announced its league winners with Penticton forward Tyson Jost named winner of the Vern Dye Memorial Award as MVP. Teammate Dante Fabbro was top defenceman and Vees bench boss Fred Harbinson was coach of the year.

Chilliwack’s Vimal Sukumaran beat out Tufto for rookie of the year and Coquitlam’s Colton Kerfoot was named most sportsmanlike.

Vipers Fans Excited For Playoff Hockey:

February 28, 2016, 5:38 pm

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This is posted on the Hockeytube.net website:

A Very Excited Hockey Fan

Posted by HockeyTube on Feb 28th, 2016

During the Vipers-Wenatchee Wild game Friday, an excited fan busts out some major dance moves! As a result…the Vernon Vipers used the dancer to promote their upcoming playoffs. The team squeaked into the post season by winning their final game 7-2 over the Trail Smoke Eaters. It appears the team and it’s fans are EXCITED to be headed to the playoffs.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sJD78FPe7vw

New League Rules & Regulations:

February 29, 2016, 7:00 am

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This is posted on the BCHL website:

New Rules & Regulations

February 25, 2016

The BCHL’s 2016 semiannual governors meeting was held last week in Richmond, B.C. and resulted in several rules and governance changes for the league moving forward.

A pair of changes take effect immediately:

•Any play resulting in contact with a goaltender may be submitted to the BCHL office for video review. Injury is not required for a review to be requested.

•With respect to tie-breaker criteria in the standings, the following tie-breaker has been added as the third way to determine the top team: “Team having the most WINS IN GAMES AGAINST EACH OTHER”.

The following changes will take effect starting in the 2016-17 season:

•There will be no automatic penalty shot awarded for a penalty in 3-on-3 double overtime. Instead, if a team is penalized in double overtime, a 4-on-3 power play will result. If a team is penalized at any point in overtime such that a two-man advantage is called for, a 5-on-3 power play will result. Play will revert to 4-on-4, or 3-on-3, at the first stoppage after the power play ends.

•Goaltenders will be required to change ends prior to the start of the first overtime and will remain at that end for the second overtime.

•Teams will not be permitted to start main training camp prior to August 22, 2016. There will be no team activities of any kind permitted on August 20 or 21, 2016.

•The start date for the coming season will be Friday, September 9, 2016. The season end date will be Sunday, February 26, 2017. Round 1 of the playoffs will start on Friday, March 3, 2017.

•The fifth Bauer BCHL Showcase will be held September 22 to 25, 2016 at Prospera Centre in Chilliwack.

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Brandt Hit On Szeto:

February 29, 2016, 7:05 am

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This is posted on the Hockeytube.net website:

Riley Brandt Sinks Riverman

Posted by HockeyTube on Feb 13th, 2016

The human hitman from the Vernon Vipers #12 Riley Brandt adds another victim to a long list of players who have been blown up by the hard hitting forward. This time during a game against the BCHL Langley Rivermen February 12th, Brandt catches #8 Justin Szeto crossing over the Vipers blueline!

http://www.hockeytube.net/2016/02/13/viper-riley-brandt-sinks-riverman/

Vernon Vipers Playoff Schedule:

March 1, 2016, 7:00 am

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Vernon Vipers 2016 Playoff Schedule:

Interior Division Semi-Finals: Vernon Vipers vs Penticton Vees

Game 1 Friday, March 4th Vernon @ Penticton 7pm
Game 2 Sunday, March 6th Vernon @ Penticton 6pm
Game 3 Tuesday, March 8th Penticton @ Vernon 7pm
Game 4 Wednesday, March 9th Penticton @ Vernon 7pm
Game 5 Friday, March 11th Vernon @ Penticton 7pm
Game 6 Saturday, March 12th Penticton @ Vernon 6pm
Game 7 Monday, March 14th Vernon @ Penticton 7pm

Brett Stapley's BDO Goal Of The Game:

March 1, 2016, 7:05 am

≫ Next: Jandric Commits To Vernon:

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#7 Brett Stapley BDO GOAL OF THE GAME 2-17-16

Vernon Forward #7 Brett Stapley scores against the West Kelowna Warriors February 17th 2:11 into the third period to cut West Kelowna’s lead in the game to 4-2. #27 Steve Jandric assisted on the goal by getting a shot on net. West Kelowna won 6-4.

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

Jandric Commits To Vernon:

March 1, 2016, 8:14 am

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This is posted on the Cougars website:

Jandric Commits to Vernon

February 29, 2016

Jandric Commits to BCHL Vernon Vipers

Another Cougar has committed to play in the BCHL next season

The next Cariboo player to make the Junior A jump is ’98 born defenseman Chris Jandric.

Jandric is going on to play with the Vernon Vipers for the 2016/2017 campaign.

He’ll suit up alongside his older brother, Steven, who recorded 22 points ins 57 games played this year.

After making minor impacts with the cats in his first season with just seven games played, Chris has made a humongous leap this year.  Not only has his size been a huge impact, but he has also been able to gather 34 points, good enough for 4th on the team.

We look forward to his work in the upcoming playoffs and we wish him luck in his future in the BCHL. Congratulations Chris!

Vipers Face Vees In First Round:

March 2, 2016, 7:00 am

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This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers face Vees in first round
             
Mar 2, 2016

Black Press Sports

Head coach Mark Ferner asked his top players to be at their ultimate best in Game 58 of the B.C. Hockey League season Saturday night in Trail.

The request was granted as alternate captain Liam Finlay pulled the hat trick and defenceman Bo Pellah supplied four assists as the Vernon Vipers dispatched the Smoke Eaters 7-2 before 2,113 fans at Cominco Arena.

The Vipers secured the fourth and final playoff berth in the Interior Division in their last regular season game and open a best-of-seven Interior semifinal series Friday night against the league champion Penticton Vees.

Game 2 in the Ford Road to the Fred Page Cup series goes Sunday night at the South Okanagan Events Centre. There is a Megadeth concert Saturday night at the Penticton arena.

Games 3 and 4 shift to Kal Tire Place Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

Vernon and the Merritt Centennials, 4-3 winners over the visiting Wenatchee Wild, both finished with 51 points. The Vipers took fourth with 24 wins, one more than the Cents. The Smokies finished last, three points back of Vernon and Merritt.

The Vees finished with 50 wins and 101 points. They are only the fifth team in league history to post 50 victories.

“Both Merritt and Trail, we’ve been in a dogfight all year for that final playoff spot,” said Ferner. “And fortunately for us we came up with the right effort at the right time.”

Vipers spotted the Smokies an early goal by Bennett Morrison, his first of the season on a screened shot, before producing powerplay snipes two minutes apart and taking a 4-1 first-period lead. It was 6-1 Snakes after 40 minutes.

“I think the moment got the better of us a little bit,” said Smoke Eater coach Curtis Toneff. “Their powerplay was clicking and our penalty kill wasn’t, and special teams can be the difference and it was the difference in the first period I think. It’s tough to climb out of a 4-1 deficit after one.”

Jimmy Lambert supplied his 15th snipe of the season, on the powerplay, six minutes after Morrison scored 76 seconds after the anthem. Finlay made it 2-1 on another powerplay and the Kelowna dynamo connected again, three minutes later, making it 3-1. Tufto, with his team-high 25th, pushed it to 4-1 at 15:09.

The Vipers extended the lead to 6-1 on goals from captain Colton McCarthy, his 21st, and Nicholas Rasovic, his first.

“The way it started, down 1-0, and our guys they kind of woke up,” said Ferner. “We have a hockey team that when we play a certain way we can play well. You know they’re kids, they have to believe it, they have to trust it, and I think the most important thing is you have to have success when you do those things.”

The Vipers suffered an 8-1 loss to the Wild the previous night to set up the potential one-game takes all match up on Saturday, and that drubbing helped put this game in perspective.

“We just tried to forget about it,” said Ferner.  “Shoot, you’re 57 games into the regular season and it all comes down to one game. It’s unfortunate, Trail fought all year, and what we asked our boys too was just have some class. We wouldn’t want to be on the other side either, so you have to respect your opponent, you have to respect the game, and you know we had some really good efforts tonight.”

Finlay completed the hat trick at 6:15 in the third period for his 17th, and Trail forward Kale Howarth rounded out the scoring with 5:35 to play as a deflated crowd exited the storied rink.

Trail outshot Vernon 36-28 but Bailey MacBurnie, who has been Trail’s MVP all year, allowed six goals on 20 shots, and was replaced by Linden Marshall after 40 minutes.

“He is the reason we are in that game to begin with,” said Toneff. “He was a bit dehydrated at the end, so I’m not sure he was 100 per cent before the game, but there were tip-ins and point shots through traffic, I mean those aren’t easy to stop. I don’t think it was on Bailey, but he might wanted to have one or two of them back for sure.”

Trail was five points out of a playoff spot two weeks ago when the team fired head coach and GM Nick Deschenes. Two wins over the Salmon Arm Silverbacks put the Smokies in playoff contention.

“We kind of felt the buzz around town, and I’ve never felt that buzz around here to be honest, playing and coaching,” said Toneff. “People were talking. I’ve never seen that many butts in the seats, it was awesome to see, and great to hear the chant. It just goes to show you that if the game matters, people will come.”

For Vernon, the playoff berth comes at the end of a season that was at the best of times a struggle. Still, Snakes forward and Trail native Riley Brandt says the victory over his former team was as sweet as they come and is looking forward to the first-round match up against the Penticton Vees.

“It’s unreal, no better feeling coming in here and getting the win,” said Brandt, an alternate captan. “A lot of guys were nervous. Coming back to my home town I couldn’t even breathe on the way up here but it was great to get the victory...We had our ups and downs on the year, definitely tough, but it was great to pull through, and good way to end the year, to end up winning. Coming in here and getting the win, no better feeling.”

SNAKE BITES: Forward  Joe Sacco has committed to the University of New Hampshire for next season. The product of Reading, Mass. recorded 10 goals and 19 points in 56 games for the Vipers this season. Sacco will turn 20 on June 1...Pellah anchored the point on the powerplay and finished with four assists, giving him 38 points on the year, third best on the Vipers...Andrew Shortridge recorded 34 saves for his 19th win of the year...The Vipers have signed D Chris Jandric for next season. The younger brother of Viper F Steven Jandric compiled five goals and 34 points this season with the Major Midget Cariboo Cougars in Prince George. He looked very comfortable in two call-ups with Vernon.

Odeen Tufto's BDO Goal Of The Game:

March 2, 2016, 7:05 am

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This is posted on the Vipers website:

#15 Odeen Tufto BDO GOAL OF THE GAME 2-23-16

BCHL Rookie Of The Year candidate #15 Odeen Tufto scores early into double overtime to give the Vernon Vipers a 3-2 win over the Surrey Eagles February 23rd. For Tufto that was his 24th goal of the season. #4 Mitch Oliver collected his third assist of the game on the game winner.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m9xlGfAgbY8

Finlay Receives Honorable Mention For Player Of The Week:

March 3, 2016, 7:00 am

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This is posted on the BCHL website:

Jost reaches 100-point mark, earns POW honours

February 29, 2016

Penticton Vees forward Tyson Jost has been named the BCHL Player of the Week for the week ending Feb. 28, the league announced Monday.

Jost led all BCHL scorers for the week with three goals and six assists for nine points in three games. The product of St. Albert, Alta. opened his week with a goal and four assists in an 11-0 home win over Surrey where he was named 1st Star. He followed that up with a goal and a helper in a 5-3 road loss in Merritt but capped his week with a 3rd Star nod for his goal and assist in a 5-1 win in Salmon Arm. Jost’s production put him over the 100-point mark for the season in just 48 games played.

Honourable mentions this week:

Prince George Spruce Kings F Cavin Tilsley: 2G, 3A, 1st Star, 3rd Star

Alberni Valley Bulldogs G Brody Claeys: 2W, 3rd Star, 57 saves/60 shots, 0.950 sv%, 1.48 GAA

Alberni Valley Bulldogs F Eric Margo: 2g, 1A, OT GWG, two FortisBC Energy Player of the Week honours

Merritt Centennials F Nick Jermain: 2G, 2A, 1st Star, 3rd Star, GWG

Vernon Vipers F Liam Finlay: 3G, 2A, 1st Star, hat trick, GWG

Chilliwack Chiefs F Darien Craighead: 4G, 3A, 2nd Star

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Vernon Vipers 2015-16 Bloopers Video:

March 3, 2016, 7:05 am

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This is posted on the Hockeytube.net website:

Vernon Vipers 2015-16 Bloopers

Posted by HockeyTube on Feb 28th, 2016

Over the past couple of months the BCHL Vernon Vipers have been doing a few more promos for their game nights. Here are some of the outtakes and bloopers from some of the players and coaching staff.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGu-5Se31u8

Vipers Hosts Engagement:

March 4, 2016, 7:00 am

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This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers hosts engagement

by Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star

Mar 4, 2016

Tony Kerby thought, while in Canada, go to a hockey game and propose to his wife, Marlies Hoogeboom.

Wait. What?

The British pair, visiting Vernon on a ski holiday from their home in Surrey (not that one, the one outside London), were receiving well wishes from everyone around them in Section F after Kerby slipped an engagement ring onto Hoogeboom’s finger in the first intermission of Feb. 26’s Vernon Vipers’ regular season home finale at Kal Tire Place.

“We’ve been together since 2000 and we got married four years ago in New Zealand but we never had a proper engagement,” beamed Kerby, 35, a police officer. “I felt like she deserved a proper engagement.”

“I had no idea he was going to do this,” said Hoogeboom, 40, an accounts director for a facilities management company.

It’s the first engagement for both.

The couple, married four years ago, celebrated their first anniversary Monday.

They married on Feb. 29.

The pair came to Canada to ski but, as long as they were in the country, why not go to a hockey game? That’s where Kerby got the idea to propose to Hoogeboom.

Neither had been to a hockey game before. Unfortunately, the home team lost 8-1 to the Wenatchee Wild.

The couple was heading to Fairmont and Lake Louise after Silver Star Mountain Resort left a lasting impression.

“I’ve skied all over the world, in eight countries, probably at 35 different resorts, and Silver Star is, by far, my favourite resort,” said Kerby.

Vipers Well Aware Of Vees' Stars:

March 4, 2016, 7:05 am

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This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers well aware of Vees' stars

by Kevin Mitchell - Vernon Morning Star

Mar 4, 2016

Tyson Jost joined past Penticton superstars like Paul Kariya, Brett Hull and Joe Murphy in winning the Vern Dye Memorial Trophy as  MVP in the B.C. Hockey League.

The ultra-talented 17-year-old forward compiled 42 goals and 104 points in his second year with the Vees.

Dante Fabbro of the Vees is now in Duncan Keith’s class after being named the league’s Top Defenceman with 14 goals and 67 points

Toss in the BCHL’s scoring king and ex-Penn State Nitany Lion Scott Conway (56 goals and 116 points with 15 game-winners) and former Ohio State Buckeye Nic Jones, and the Vees are one of the best teams in league history. They won 50 games, only the fifth team to do so, and rang up 101 points, 50 more than the Vernon Vipers.

Given all these props and stats, the Vees are heavy favourites to dispatch the 24-win Vipers in Round 1 of the playoffs. The best-of-seven Interior Division semifinal series opens tonight at the South Okanagan Events Centre.

A survey on the Vees’ website asks fans who will win the series. Just seven per cent of the voters chose the Vipers.

Vernon is fine with being underdogs. They appeared loose while being pushed to the max in practice Wednesday afternoon at Kal Tire Place.

“They’re probably one of the best teams I’ve ever seen play,” said Viper forward Joe Sacco, who just signed a letter of intent with the University of New Hampshire Wildcats. “They’ve got a lot of talent and I don’t think that’s a secret. We can respect them, but at the end of the day, they’re our opponents.”

Liam Finlay, who started last year in Penticton before being traded to the Vipers Den, says putting the focus solely on what the Vipers do best is crucial for success.

“They’re obviously a real good team and we just have to go in there with the mentality that we’re confident and we know we can beat them. All the guys returning are gonna know what it’s like and we’re seeking revenge for sure.”

Penticton won Game 7 on a fluky goal last year at home, while the Vipers stunned the Vees in the seventh game, also on the road, two years ago on an overtime snipe by Michael McNicholas.

Viper fiery captain Colton McCarthy was pretty much classified a high-risk criminal by Vees’ fans last year as he taunted goalie Hunter Miska and anyone else who came near him.

“Pen’s definitely a good team so we have to get in their head and play hard against them,” said McCarthy, a Salmon Arm product. “I know they don‘t like getting hit so we have to stay on them, keep hitting and frustrating them.”

McCarthy, a former Prince Albert Raider, says making the post-season dance feels sweet.

“It’s excellent getting the last win in Trail and all the guys are a little nervous, but excited to be in the playoffs.”

The Vees are the No. 2 ranked team in the country behind the defending Royal Bank Cup champion Portage Terriers, who bumped the Vees with a late 19-game winning streak.

Jost, who like Fabbro, is projected as a first-round pick in the June NHL entry draft in Buffalo, said being nominated for MVP was a big honour.

“It’s special but Scott (Conway) could have easily been nominated for the award and (Sheldon, of Nanaimo) Rempal and Jordan Kawaguchi (of Chilliwack Chiefs) are both amazing players and it could have gone either way, so it’s humbling to be recognized like this.”

Jones, who just committed to the University of North Dakota Fighting Hawks for 2017-18, is the fifth player on the Vees’ roster to sign with UND. Penticton has 15 players with NCAA scholarships.

Prior to joining Ohio State two years ago, Jones had a decorated junior career with the Sherwood Park Crusaders in the Alberta Junior Hockey League, producing 52 goals and 96 points in 100 games.

Saaco, 19, is one of nine Vipers now carrying a U.S. scholarship although power forward Christian Cakebread has de-committed to UND and may return here.

“There were two or three schools that showed interest but ultimately, UNH showed the most and I felt it was the perfect fit for me,” said Sacco, of Reading, Mass. “My dad (ex-NHLer Joe, now a coach with the Boston Bruins) went to BU (Boston University Terriers) so I have ties with Hockey East and obviously it’s closer to home, about an hour. I’ll have to earn my role. They can’t promise me anything; playing time is up to me.”

Sacco’s father was selected 71st overall by the Maple Leafs in the 1987 draft lottery and went on to play 738 games with the Anaheim Mighty Ducks, New York Islanders, Washington Capitals and Philadelphia Flyers. Sacco skated with Viper head coach Mark Ferner in the Ducks’ inaugural season.

“He’s been a huge factor in my life,” said Joe Jr. “He’s helped guide me through different situations. He’s never forced me one way or another, but he’s always been there to show me the right path to take.

“He retired when I was in first grade so I don’t remember all of it. I remember the last year a little bit. Paul Kariya started his career when my dad was one of the older guys with the Ducks. They were pretty close. I also got to meet guys like (Teemu) Selanne.”

A huge Red Sox fan who played shortstop and batted ninth “because I couldn’t hit” in youth baseball, Sacco will take away fond memories of his stay in Vernon.

1st Round: Interior Division Semi-Finals-Game 1 Preview: Vernon @ Penticton:

March 4, 2016, 7:10 am

≫ Next: Interior Division Semi-Finals: Game 1 Penticton 6 Vernon 3

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Vernon (24-31-3-0) @ Penticton (50-7-0-1) 7pm

Tonight is Game 1 of the BCHL 1st Round Interior Division Semi-Finals between the Vernon Vipers & Penticton Vees. The Vees won the regular season series 6-0

Last Game:

Saturday, February 27th Vernon defeated Trail 7-2
Saturday, February 27th Penticton defeated Salmon Arm 5-1

Next Game:

Sunday, March 6th Game 2 Vernon @ Penticton

My game previews take up close to a full page, this is why I have had to shorten the front page.  In order to read the full page-game preview, click on the "read more" near the bottom left corner of this post.




Interior Division Semi-Finals Schedule: Vernon Vipers vs Penticton Vees

Game 1 Friday, March 4th Vernon @ Penticton 7pm
Game 2 Sunday, March 6th Vernon @ Penticton 6pm
Game 3 Tuesday, March 8th Penticton @ Vernon 7pm
Game 4 Wednesday, March 9th Penticton @ Vernon 7pm
Game 5 Friday, March 11th Vernon @ Penticton 7pm
Game 6 Saturday, March 12th Penticton @ Vernon 6pm
Game 7 Monday, March 14th Vernon @ Penticton 7pm

Here's a look at the season series between the two teams

The Vipers went 0-4-2-0 vs Penticton this season

September 16th Vernon @ Penticton: Vees won 3-2
November 25th Vernon @ Penticton: Vees won 4-3 Overtime
December 4th Vernon @ Penticton: Vees won 3-0
December 15th Penticton @ Vernon: Vees won 5-4 Double Overtime
January 1st Penticton @ Vernon: Vees won 6-0
January 8th Penticton @ Vernon: Vees won 4-1
Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon is 39-40-2-8 vs. Penticton

Since the 2002-03 regular season Penticton has outscored Vernon 266-251

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 20-16-1-2 at home vs. Penticton

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 16-20-1-3 in Penticton

Vernon is 2-6-0-2 in their last ten visits to Penticton

Penticton is 8-2-0-0 in their last ten visits to Vernon

The Vipers are 1-7-2-0 in their last ten games vs. Penticton

Vernon's last win at home vs Penticton was a 4-3 victory on Saturday, February 22nd 2014

Penticton's last win at the Kal Tire Place was a 4-1 victory on Friday, January 8th 2016

Vernon's last win at the South Okanagan Events Centre was a 2-1 victory on Wednesday, February 11th 2015

Penticton's last win at home vs Vernon was a 3-0 victory on Friday, December 4th 2015

The Vipers went 1-6-0-0 vs Penticton last season

Here’s a look at the previous 22 playoff meetings between Vernon & Penticton:

1966-67 Penticton defeated Vernon 4 games to 1
1967-68 Penticton defeated Vernon 4 games to 0
1971-72 Vernon defeated Penticton 4 games to 3 (BCJHL Final)
1973-74 Penticton defeated Vernon 4 games to 0
1974-75 Vernon defeated Penticton 4 games to 2
1975-76 Penticton defeated Vernon (No Stats)
1976-77 Penticton defeated Vernon 4 games to 2
1982-83 Penticton defeated Vernon 4 games to 3
1986-87 Vernon defeated Penticton 4 games to 0
1987-88 Vernon defeated Penticton 4 games to 0
1992-93 Penticton defeated Vernon 4 games to 1
1993-94 Vernon defeated Penticton 4 games to 3
1994-95 Penticton come back down 3-1 defeating Vernon 4 games to 3
2001-02 Vernon defeated Penticton 4 games to 2
2002-03 Vernon defeated Penticton 4 games to 0
2004-05 Vernon defeated Penticton 4 games to 0
2006-07 Vernon defeated Penticton 4 games to 1
2007-08 Penticton defeated Vernon 4 games to 3
2008-09 Vernon defeated Penticton 4 games to 1
2009-2010 Vernon defeated Penticton 4 games to 2
2013-2014 Vernon defeated Penticton 4 games to 3
2014-15 Penticton defeated Vernon 4 games to 3

Lets take a look at the Vernon Vipers:


The Vernon Vipers make their fourth visit of the season to the South Okanagan Events Centre, are coming off a 7-2 win in Trail Saturday, clinched the final playoff spot in the Interior Division for a second straight season. The Vipers  finished 4th in the Interior Division tied in points with Merritt finished three points ahead of last place Trail. The Vipers finished the 2015-16 regular season losing three of their last five games, went 3-7-0-0 in their final ten regular season games. The Vipers have one win in their last five road games, Tonight is the seventh meeting of the season between the Vipers & Vees and the third straight year these two teams have met in the playoffs. This is the 23rd time these two teams have met come playoffs with Vernon winning twelve of the twenty two previous series to date. Vernon is 0-6 vs Penticton this season went 0-2-1-0 at the South Okanagan Events Centre. Vernon's last win at the South Okanagan Events Centre was a 2-1 victory on Wednesday, February 11th 2015. The Vipers have struggled in Penticton the last four seasons, have only three wins in their last seventeen games at the SOEC going 3-11-0-3. 
Odeen Tufto (25-40-65) lead the the team in regular season goals with twenty five and in points with sixty five.

Liam Finlay played in 13 games with the Vees from 2013-2014 before being traded to Vernon on October 28th 2014.

Brendan Barry played last season in Penticton before being released after playing in just one game this season.

Vernon Vipers 2015-16 regular season Stats:

Games Played: 58Wins: 24
Losses: 31
Ties: 0
Overtime Losses: 3
Home Record: 13-14-0-2
Road Record: 11-16-0-2
Overtime Record: 4-4
Record vs Interior Division: 12-21-0-3
Record vs Island & Mainland Divisions: 12-9-0-1
When the Vipers score first: 10-7-0-2
When the opponents score first: 14-24-0-1
Leading after 1st Period: 11-4-0-2
Tied after 1st Period: 5-9-0-0
Trailing after 1st Period: 9-18-0-1
Leading after 2nd Period: 14-2-0-1
Tied after 2nd Period: 6-6-0-1
Trailing after 2nd Period: 4-23-0-0
Out shooting Opponents: 12-8-0-2
Out shot by Opponents: 11-23-0-1
One goal games: 7-7-0-3
Record in September: 3-3-0-1
Record in October: 6-6-0-0
Record in November: 4-6-0-1
Record in December: 3-5-0-1
Record in January: 5-4-0-0
Record in February: 3-7-0-0
Goals For: 179
Goals Against: 206
Place: 4th Place
Streak: One game winning streak
Longest winning streak this year: Four games
Longest losing streak this year: Six games

Vernon Vipers Returning Players:

Liam Finlay (97)
Jagger Williamson (98)
Colton McCarthy (96)
Riley Brandt (96)
Mitchell Oliver (97)
Nic Rasovic (96)

Vernon Vipers Departing & traded players from last years team:

Liam Coughlin (94)
Anthony Latina (94)
Blaine Caton (97)
Linden Hora (96)
Nicholas Rasovic (96)
TJ Dumonceaux (94)
Luke Shiplo (95)
Luke Voltin (95)
Brandon Egli (94)
Jarrod Schamerhorn (95)
Mitch Meek (96)
Johhny Coughlin (95)
Kenny Citron (95)
Riley Guenther (94)
Mackenzie Bauer (96)
Danny Todosychuk (94)

Vernon’s Home record vs. Penticton this season:

0-2-1-0

Vernon’s Road record vs. Penticton this season:

0-2-1-0

Vernon’s scoring leaders vs. Penticton this season:

Liam Finlay (0-4-4)
Odeen Tufto (1-3-4)
Steven Jandric (2-1-3)
Christian Cakebread (3-0-3)
Jimmy Lambert (1-2-3)
Hunter Zandee (2-0-2)
Charley Michalowski (0-1-1)
Jagger Williamson (0-1-1)
Griffin James (1-0-1)
Bo Pellah (0-1-1)
Ben Butcher (0-1-1)

Andrew Shortridge (0-6 Record)

-Vernon has the leagues 6th best powerplay

-The Vipers have the leagues 13th best penalty kill

Lets take a look at the Penticton Vees:

The defending Western Canada Cup Champion Penticton Vees are coming off a 5-1 victory in Salmon Arm Saturday, finished atop the league standings with an incredible 50-7-1-0 regular season record, becoming just the fifth team in league history to record fifty wins in a season. Penticton won four of their last five regular season games, went 9-1-0-0 in their last ten games. The Vees only loss at home this season, was a 4-2 loss to the visiting Salmon Arm Silverbacks on January 9th 2016. The Vees have won seven straight over the Vipers going back to last year. The Vees have had the Vipers number the past four year's going 25-7-0-0. Penticton finished the 2015-16 regular season ranked #2 in Canada behind the defending Royal Bank Cup Champion Portage Terriers. Scott Conway collected seventeen points in six regular season games vs the Vipers this season.

Scott Conway (56-60-116) lead the Vees in regular season goals with fifty six and in points with one hundread sixteen.

Demico Hannoun played one season in Vernon (2013-14) before being traded to Surrey in the off season.

Luke Voltin played last season with the Vipers before being traded to Langley on August 27th 2015

Fraser Rodgers Three Vees blog,

http://www.pentictonvees.ca/category/blog

Penticton Vees 2015-16 regular season Stats:

Games Played: 58
Wins: 50
Losses: 7
Ties: 1
Overtime Losses: 0
Home Record: 27-1-0-1
Road Record: 23-6-0-0
Goals For: 263
Goals Against: 121
Place: 1st Place Overall
Streak: One game winning streak

Penticton Vees Returning Players:

Gabe Bast (96)
Dante Fabbro (98)
Demico Hannoun (95)
Tyson Jost (98)

Penticton Vees Departing & traded players from last years team:

Patrick Newell (96)
Riley Alferd (95)
Lewis Zerter-Gossage (95)
Jack Ramsey (95)
Mike Lee (96)
Brendan Barry (97)
Dakota Conroy (94)
Steen Cooper (95)
Matthew Serratore (94)
Connor Chartier (94)
Mitch Newsome (97)
Cody DePourcq (95)
Miles Gendron (96)
Patrick Sexton (94)
Cam Amantea (94)
Jarod Hilderman (97)
Hunter Miska (95)

Penticton's Home record vs. Vernon this season:

3-0-0-0

Penticton's Road record vs. Vernon this season:

3-0-0-0

Penticton's scoring leaders vs. Vernon this season:

Scott Conway (11-6-17)
Tyson Jost (2-10-12)
Nicholas Jones (2-6-8)
Easton Brodzinski (2-5-7)
Dante Fabbro (2-4-6)
Owen Sillinger (1-3-4)
Darius Davidson (1-1-2)
Griffin Mendel (0-2-2)
Chris Gerrie (2-0-2)
Chris Gerrie (0-2-2)
Luke Voltin (0-2-2)
David Eccles (0-1-1)
Gabe Bast (0-1-1)
Mitchell Brooks (1-0-1)
Sam Jones (0-1-1)
Colton Poolman (0-1-1)
Ben Brar (1-0-1)
Bowen Dixon (0-1-1)

Anthony Brodeur (4-0 Record)
Zachary Driscoll (2-0 Record-2 Shutouts)

-Penticton has with the leagues best powerplay

-The Vees have the league's 3rd best penalty kill

Here's a look at both teams rosters:

Vernon Vipers:
http://bchl.ca/roster?team=21&season=25&rosterstatus=1

Penticton Vees:http://bchl.ca/roster?team=12&season=25&rosterstatus=1

Interior Division Semi-Finals: Game 1 Penticton 6 Vernon 3

March 5, 2016, 12:55 am

≫ Next: Interior Division Semi-Finals: Vipers-Vees Game 1 Highlight's:

≪ Previous: 1st Round: Interior Division Semi-Finals-Game 1 Preview: Vernon @ Penticton:

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For anyone who could not attend or watch tonight’s Vipers game here are my thoughts and views from tonight’s game. You may agree or disagree but we all have our own view and opinion on any game we watch. This is my opinion and my thoughts on how I saw tonight’s game. I try to be unbiased and give a fare recap on both sides. Thanks for stopping by & visiting my blog.

I was at tonight's Game 1 of the Interior Division Semi-Finals as Penticton defeated Vernon 6-3 in front of 2,312 fans at the South Okanagan Events Centre.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon: Andrew Shortridge

Penticton: Anthony Brodeur

1st Period: The Vees took early control of the game, off the opening faceoff carried the play early for the first few minutes. Penticton with two quick shots inside the first thirty seconds or so before Nick Jones on a wrap around couldn't beat Andrew Shortridge just minutes into the 1st. The Vipers needed three minutes to record their first shot on goal and a good shot it was. Nicolas Rasovic ripped a hard shot from the circle forced Anthony Brodeur into making a glove save keeping this game scoreless early. On the following play Vernon would get the games first powerplay, after the Vees would lose veteran d-man Dante Fabbro for twelve minutes after picking up two minutes for checking to the head and an automatic ten minute misconduct. Just seven seconds into the powerplay, Bo Pellah spotted former Penticton Vees forward Liam Finlay going to the net, beat Brodeur in close giving Vernon an early 1-0 lead at 3:48 Pellah & Jimmy Lambert with the helpers. A few minutes later Bo Pellah tried setting up a Viper going to the net on a Vernon odd man rush, Pellah's pass went off the Penticton defenceman and just about caught Anthony Brodeur off guard who was forced to make a quick reaction save as the Vipers were close to jumping out to a two goal lead. This play-shift seemed to give Vernon some momentum as the Vipers built off that shift, continuing to get some good pressure deep in the Vees zone. Vernon with a few good shifts, were strong down low, had the cycle going, were able to get a few good looks at the net from in close couldn't beat Brodeur. The Vipers would kill the momentum after taking a penalty outside of the zone, giving the Vees their first look with the man advantage. Gabe Bast lead the Vees PP with a three on two, setup Scott Conway who went fivehole on Andrew Shortridge from in close tied the game 1-1 at 12:10 on a goal Shortridge would like to have back. Bast with the lone assist. Just 1:35 later Chris Gerrie on another Vees odd man rush, fired from in close missed the net, before captain Tyson Jost picked up the loose puck in the corner, fired a quick shot from the goal line, caught Shortridge out of position, the puck would go off the Viper goaltender into the back of the net, giving Penticton a 2-1 lead at 13:45 on another goal Shortridge would like to have back. Gerrie & Seamus Donohue picked up the assists. Shortridge with two soft goals, didn't look sharp just past the halfway mark. Vernon would battle back and hold their own as both teams played hard, with no team really outplaying the other. Late in the frame Odeen Tufto with a quick high shot forced Anthony Brodeur into making a tough save with his blocker keeping this one out. On the following play-shift Nick Jones setup Taylor Ward in front giving Penticton a 3-1 lead at 18:45 This was a tough goal to give up late in the period. Jones and Dante Fabbro collected the helpers. Tyson Jost and former Vernon Vipers forward Demico Hannoun lead a two on one inside the final minute. Jost setup Hannoun who ripped a high shot beat Andrew Shortridge but went off the crossbar with twenty seconds remaining. Penticton was up 3-1 after 20 minutes. The Vipers would open the scoring early on the games first powerplay, held their own against Penticton for most of the frame. The Vipers had a few good shifts with a ton of pressure, couldn't find the back of the net, could have jumped out to a two goal lead instead give up two quick soft back to back goals 1:35 apart before giving up a late goal to end the period were down two heading into the 2nd period. The Vees with two big goals back to back less then two minutes part capitalized on Andrew Shortridge who wasn't very sharp in that opening frame. Shortridge who has been Vernon's MVP all season, needs to stop the first two goals. Odeen Tufto also wasn't very sharp, couldn't seem to stay on his feet or handle the puck, was having all kinds of troubles in that 1st period. Even down 3-1 the Vipers played hard, held their own against a very strong Penticton team. I thought both teams were fairly evenly matched, with both teams getting some chances but not a lot. Penticton outshot Vernon 12-9.

2nd Period: Just twenty four seconds into the middle frame Riley Brandt & captain Colton McCarthy lay a solid check on a Penticton Vees player in the Vees end, popped the glass out that fell onto the ice breaking after hitting the ice. A minor delay was held to replace the glass before play resumed. The Vees responded with a big 2nd period, come out hard took it too the Vipers early and often. Easton Brodzinski put a nice move on a Vernon defender before getting off a quick shot from the slot riffled the puck wide on a chance alone from in close. A few minutes later Brodzinski would get another opportunity from the slot, this time around was stopped by Vipers goaltender Andrew Shortridge. Nick Jones with a great look from in close was stopped by Shortridge. The Vipers needed close to seven minutes to record their first shot of the period would go the first twelve minutes of the period with just one shot on goal. Penticton carried and dominated the play, had the Vipers hanging on for most of the period. The Vees with several quality chances from in close couldn't beat Shortridge. Just past the halfway mark the Vees would get their second look with the PP. Former Vipers forward Luke Voltin would be denied by Andrew Shortridge before Scott Conway spotted the wide open cage in front gave Penticton a 4-1 lead at 12:18 after some nice three way passing by the Vees. Easton Brodzinski & Tyson Jost with the helpers. Colton McCarthy gave Conway two crosschecks after the goal who was laughing at McCarthy almost taunting him during the goal celebration. Just 1:04 later Tyson Jost setup Owen Sillenger who sniped a low shot from the circle that beat Shortridge gave Penticton a 5-1 lead at 12:32 on another goal Shortridge would like back. Jost and Demico Hannoun picked up the assists. The Vipers would call a timeout. Vernon who didn't see much offensive zone time, when had play in the Penticton end were boxed out in a hurry and turned around as the Vees were back on the attack. The Vipers would get a late powerplay, would get their first shot on goal in about five to six minutes, wich was just their second shot of the period. Liam Finlay setup Odeen Tufto from the slot that beat Vees starting goaltender Anthony Brodeur cut the Penticton lead to 5-2 at 17:17 Finlay with the lone assist. Inside the final minute a quick shot from the point would get redirected in front by Mitch Brooks who was denied by Andrew Shortridge who made a tough save. Penticton was up 5-2 after 40 minutes. A pretty dominating 2nd period by Penticton who carried most of the play, had the Vipers hemmed inside their own end for most of the middle frame. The Vees with lots of good-quality chances only got two past Shortridge who made some big saves from in close. It was like men against the boys this period as the Vees were by far the better of the two teams, had the majority of the opportunities. Vernon with just one shot in the first fifteen minutes, had very little zone time were held to the outside, had troubles creating-generating opportunities all period. Again for a second straight period the Vipers give up two quick back to back goals, like the 1st period. Penticton outshot Vernon 20-4.

3rd Period: Early into the final frame Bo Pellah turnover over the puck inside the Vernon blueline allowed Scott Conway in all alone for the breakaway, couldn't get his third of the night was stopped in tight by Andrew Shortridge who come up with a big save early to start the 3rd. For a second straight period the Vipers had troubles getting pucks to the net, needed almost six minutes to get their first shot of the period. Vernon went over half the 3rd with just one shot on goal. Penticton up by three goals seemed to take their foot off the gas for a bit didn't press the Vipers as often as that 2nd period. Mitch Brooks setup Nick Jones who scored on his own rebound, giving Penticton a 6-2 lead at 9:18 Brooks & Luke Voltin with the assists. Just over two minutes later Vernon would respond on a weird play. Liam Finlay scored off a faceoff draw deep in the Vees zone, somehow the puck had eyes found its way to the back of the net, cutting the Penticton lead to 6-3 at 11:41 Jagger Williamson with the lone helper. A lot of back and fourth play with not a lot of chances at either ends of the rink. With the score out of hand and the game basically over, the Vipers started playing a little chippy in the second half, maybe setting a tone for Game 2? Vernon giving little jabs or wacks during the play, looked to try and get under the skin of the Vees. Some minor scrums occurred now and again but nothing major. In the final minutes Christian Cakebread and Ben Brar got tangled up along the side wall, were both down on the ice in a so called wrestling match before both players got up. Riley Brandt come flying out of no where tried tackling Brar before some pushing and shoving occurred. Tempers heated up in a hurry as both teams got involved in some after the whistle activities. Penticton would get a late powerplay, on the an advantage Bo Pellah went straight after a Vees player in front of the net, as the Vipers either were losing focus-showing signs of frustration or Vernon was trying to set a ton for Sunday's Game 2? More pushing and shoving as both teams were getting involved with more activities late to finish the 3rd. The Vees would send out their top powerplay unit for the two man advantage, forcing Andrew Shortridge into making several big stops to finish the remainder of the period. The Vees with a handful of chances inside the final minute couldn't put up seven goals, would take Game 1 with a 6-3 victory. It looked like the Vees took their foot off the gas early but started rotating back to their regular shifts-lines. The Vees didn't get nearly as many opportunities as the second period. The Vipers with very little shots, had some zone time at times, had troubles getting pucks to the net. I didn't think either team had a lot of chances, until late in the game with the Vees on the two man advantage, Andrew Shortridge had to be sharp, made some big saves to finish the game. Penticton outshot Vernon 15-5.

Top Player's: (Vernon)

Bo Pellah (1 assist) I thought played his best game or one of his best games in a very long time. Pellah was one of the Vipers better-consistant players this evening. I thought Pellah was skating good, moving the puck, breaking out of the zone, moving the puck up ice and creating-generating some chances. Other then turning over the puck early in the 3rd to Scott Conway, played a solid game on the Viper blueline.

Nicholas Rasovic made his presence felt, played a hard fought physical game, was Vernon's most physical player. Rasovic played hard, was hitting lots in the opening frame, tried setting the tone with some physical play.

Liam Finlay (2 goals & 1 assist) Playing his former team for a second straight season in the playoffs Finlay was really skating hard, moving the puck, scored twice adding a helper was very good for the Vipers.

Game Thought's: (Vernon)

I thought the Vipers played hard-competed in two out of the three periods tonight. The Vipers played very well-held their own against the Vees in the 1st needed two saves from Andrew Shortridge on Penticton's first two goals. Shortridge who wasn't very sharp tonight, allowed three soft goals in the loss. If Shortridge stops the Vees first two goals, its 1-1 going into the 2nd period instead of 3-1. Does Penticton still win tonight? Probally but you never know what could have happened. I think those two quick back to back goals in the opening frame took the wind out of the sail of the Vipers. Shortridge has to be better in Game 2 and the remainder of the series if the Vipers have any chance of winning. Vernon needed a better performance in the 2nd period, were outplayed most of the 2nd period, only gave up two goals but found themselves down three going into the 3rd. Vernon had troubles creating-generating opportunities all night. Especially in the 2nd and 3rd periods had just one shot in the 2nd and 3rd periods well into the second half of each period. Your not going to win many games with just a single shot in the first half or more of a period. The Vipers had troubles getting any kind of offence going, were either kept to the outside or boxed out, were very limited to their time and space. The Vipers also don't matchup well against the Vees who have a much stronger, bigger, skilled and veteran coached team. The Vipers just don't have the same skill level as the Vees, don't have the same kind of elite players like Penticton does. The Vipers played and battled hard in two of the three periods just don't have the bodies to beat a very skilled high powered team like the Vees. If Vernon wants to win a game let alone the series, the Vipers have to play a flawless game. The Vipers need to do a much better job at trying to shutdown or atleast try and contain the likes of Scott Conway, Nick Jones and Easton Brodzinski who are given way too much open ice to free wheel. Vernon needs to get more pucks to the net, go hard to the net, make life more difficult for Anthony Brodeur, play more physical, in your face style of play, play with a little more grit, get in the face of the Vees superstars, try and get them off their game. Vernon's last regular season win at the South Okanagan Events Centre was a 2-1 victory on Wednesday, February 11th 2015. The Vipers have struggled in Penticton the last four regular seasons, have only three regular season wins in their last seventeen games at the SOEC going 3-11-0-3. Former Vipers defenceman Max Mowat was at tonight's game.

Top Player's: (Penticton)

Nick Jones (1 goal & 1 assist) Has played very well against the Vipers this season, had a strong game up front for the Vees. Jones with several good chances, was very good through out the contest.

Scott Conway (2 goals) Now has nineteen points in seven games vs the Vipers this season. Conway has been a Viper killer was very dangerous. Had lots of open ice, was able to free wheel in and around the Vernon goal, had lots of opportunities for his third goal of the night. A very smooth skater, really sees and reads the ice well, always seems to find open ice.

Mitch Brooks I thought had a nice game for the Penticton Vees, played hard-battled through out the game.

Easton Brodzinski (1 assist) Caught my attention the first Vipers-Vees game of the season, stood out in tonight's victory. A bigger body, goes to the net, had several chances from in close, was all over the rink. Another kid who sees-reads the ice well, has a quick hard release.

Dante Fabbro (1 assist) Played very well on the Vees backend. Played a strong defensive game, shutting down Vernon's offence.

Game Thought's: (Penticton)

The Vees took Game 1 didn't run away with tonight's game like the scoreboard shows but were very strong in the win. I thought for two periods the Vipers held their own against Penticton, it was two quick soft back to back goals less then two minutes apart that seemed to give the Vees life and set the Vipers back a little in the 1st period. Getting that late 3rd goal in the final minutes of the 1st period was a killer, instead of being up just one heading into the 2nd the Vees are up by two with a little more confidence. It was the 2nd period where Penticton showed how strong and dominate they are, took it too the Vipers but only managed two goals. Did the Vees take their foot off the gas for a bit in the 3rd? I didn't think Penticton was as strong-good as they were in that 2nd period. The Vees don't get nearly as many opportunities as they do in the 2nd compared to the 3rd. A very chippy final frame with lots of rough stuff-scrums late to finish the 3rd. Overall the Vees look like men playing against boys. The Vees are stacked with a very skilled team, are like facing an all-star team. This team has lost just once at home all season, is going to be very hard to beat during these playoffs. The Vipers may have held their own against them in the 1st and 3rd periods but Penticton can score in a hurry scored two quick goals less then two minutes part in the 1st and two quick back to back goals just over a minute apart in the 2nd. The Vees have a very strong transition game, move the puck in a hurry, are hard to contain, defend against and score on. Give credit to Penticton's defence who did a good job at shutting down Vernon's offence, limited the Vipers chances to a bare minimum, keeping the Vipers to the outside most of the night. Anthony Brodeur wasn't tested much, didn't see a lot of rubber in the final two periods. A pretty classless move by Fred Harbinson late in the final minute of the game, sending out his top powerplay unit for a late two man advantage in a 6-3 game. The Vees have won eight straight over Vernon going back to the regular season. A great crowd for tonight's game.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Brendan Barry (Injured)
Latrell Charleson (Injured)
Charley Michalowski (Injured)

Penticton:

Colton Poolman (Injured)
Dom Masellis (Injured)

Energy Player of the Game:

Taylor Ward (1 goal)

Three Stars:

1st Star: Tyson Jost (1 goal & 2 assists)
2nd Star: Scott Conway (2 goals)
3rd Star: Nick Jones (1 goal & 1 assist)

BCHL Game Summary,

http://bchl.ca/game-summary?game_id=7163

Fraser Rodgers Penticton Vees Blog,

http://www.pentictonvees.ca/category/blog