Vipers Triumph in Thrilling 6-5 Victory Over Trail Smoke Eaters

Vernon, BC:  It was far from a masterpiece from both teams, but the Vernon Vipers were able to pull of a late 6-5 victory in front of a great crowd at Kal Tire Place.  The back-and-forth battle saw both teams trading goals, momentum swings, and a dramatic finish that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

“There were lots of ups and downs during the game,” says Head Coach Lukas Lomicky.  “We had moments where we executed the game plan and had some opportunities from it.  On the other hand, there are still things we need to clean up to be more consistent throughout the game.”

The Vipers struck twice in 44 seconds as Erik Pastro and Keeghan Dunn scored to give Vernon a 2-0 lead.  However, Trail responded quickly, with Deacon Drummond getting the Smokies within 1 after 1.

The second period saw the Vipers take control thanks to their powerplay. Carter Streek scored two quick goals to give Vernon a 3-1 lead, but the Smoke Eaters fought back with a powerplay of their own, cutting the deficit to one with a goal from Jason Stefanek.  Lucas Brennan and Evan Sundar traded goals late in the period.  The Vipers held onto their 5-3 lead heading into the final period, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion.

The Smoke Eaters stormed back, tying the game 5-5 with a pair of goals 1:46 apart from Evan Sundar and Cade De St. Hubert.

Just when overtime seemed inevitable, Keeghan Dunn  scored the game-winner and his second of the game for the Vipers with just over two minutes left on the clock, sending the fans home happy.

Goaltender Colin Reay finished the night with 33 saves on 38 shots.

The Vipers powerplay looked sharp finishing the night 3 for 5.

The regular season kicks off next Friday as these two teams square off again, this time at the Cominco Arena