Abbotsford, BC: The Vipers wrapped up the BCHL Showcase on a high note with a strong offensive performance, securing a 6-4 victory over the Blackfalds Bulldogs on Monday morning.
Shea Busch was the star of the show, netting a hat trick with his 4th, 5th, and 6th goals of the season, all before the end of the second period. His offensive outburst set the tone for the Vipers early on.
Erik Pastro chipped in as well, bookending the third period with his first and second goals of the season. Will Schumacher also contributed in a big way, scoring his fourth of the season on a brilliant unassisted breakaway that stood as the game-winning goal.
In the assist department, Charlie Kresl was busy, picking up a pair of helpers, while Simon Binkley, Lucas Brennan, Carson McGinley, Will Schumacher, and Marko Stojkov each added single assists.
Vipers’ goalie Colin Reay had a solid outing, turning aside 19 of 23 shots he faced.
Special teams were a mixed bag for the Vipers. The penalty kill was impressive, going 4-for-5 and even notching their third shorthanded goal of the season. However, the power play struggled, going 0-for-4 on the day.
On the Blackfalds side, Jack McAra led the way offensively, recording two goals and two assists to pace the Bulldogs’ attack. Goaltender Mikkel Christensen made 19 saves on 24 shots in a losing effort.
Next up for the Vipers is a road trip to Cranbrook, where they’ll face the red-hot Bucks on Saturday night.
