West Kelowna, BC: The Vernon Vipers’ persistence paid off tonight as they posted a season-high six goals in an impressive 6-1 victory over the West Kelowna Warriors at Royal LePage Place.
The Vipers’ penalty kill set the tone early, energizing the team as they surged to a commanding 4-0 lead by the end of the first period. Lucas Brennan opened the scoring, quickly followed by the game-winner from Cooper Cleaves. George Stavrianeas added to the excitement with a shorthanded tally, and Erik Pastro capped off the period’s scoring frenzy.
In the third period, Shea Busch and Cleaves extended the Vipers’ lead even further. Cleaves, a Dartmouth commit, led the team with a career-high performance, notching two goals and three assists.
Despite the high-scoring display, goaltender Marko Bilic’s performance was a crucial part of the victory, as he turned away 27 of 28 shots to secure his third win of the season.
West Kelowna’s lone goal came from Sam Ledrew, while Jack Lisson made 26 saves on 32 shots in net for the Warriors.
With this win, the Vipers improve their road record to 4-5-1. They’ll look to carry this momentum back home for a weekend matchup against Trail and Sherwood Park.
Photo Credit – Tami Quan Photography
