Vernon Vipers Set to Host Sherwood Park Crusaders in Crucial Matchup

Vernon, BC:  The Vernon Vipers aim to close out the weekend with a strong performance as they welcome the Sherwood Park Crusaders to Kal Tire Place.

Season Snapshot:

• Vernon Vipers: 10-15-5 (4-5-1 in last 10)
• Sherwood Park Crusaders: 19-12-0 (7-3 in last 10)

The Vipers are coming off a confidence-boosting 5-2 victory over West Kelowna on Friday night. Talan Blanck had a breakout performance with two goals and two assists, while goaltender Jari Kykkanen stopped 33 of 35 shots for his fourth win of the season. Vernon’s special teams shone, with the powerplay going 3-for-5 and the penalty kill shutting down all three West Kelowna opportunities.

Sherwood Park, on the other hand, will be looking to rebound after a tough 5-1 loss to Penticton last night. Former Viper Lucas Brennan scored the Crusaders’ lone goal, while goaltender James Venne made 29 saves on 34 shots. Their usually potent powerplay struggled, going 0-for-5 and conceding a shorthanded goal.

Home vs. Away:

• Vipers at Home: 5-6-4
• Crusaders on the Road: 8-8

This marks the second meeting between the two teams this season. Sherwood Park claimed a 4-3 overtime victory in Vernon back on November 9th. The teams will face off again on March 8th in Sherwood Park and March 22nd at Silent Ice Centre.

Key Players to Watch:

• Vernon Vipers: Talan Blanck (2G, 2A last game), Jari Kykkanen (33 saves Friday), and a revitalized powerplay.
• Sherwood Park Crusaders: Lucas Brennan (former Viper, lone goal last game) and their powerplay unit, which will look to rebound after a tough night in Penticton.

Don’t Miss the Action:

Get your tickets now at tickets.vernonvipers.com and cheer on the Vipers in person!

Can’t make it to the rink? Tune in live starting at 5:45 PM on 107.5 Beach Radio, Vernon Matters, or stream the game on Flo Hockey.

Puck drop is at 6:00 PM!