After the Buzzer – Vernon Vipers Start 2025 Strong with Win Over West Kelowna Warriors

Vernon, BC:  The Vernon Vipers opened the new year with a decisive 5-2 victory over the West Kelowna Warriors, fueled by a stellar performance from Talan Blanck and solid goaltending by Jari Kykkanen. Blanck tallied two goals and two assists, while Kykkanen stood tall between the pipes, turning aside 33 of 35 shots.

First Period:

The Vipers’ powerplay roared to life after a tough weekend, striking three times on five opportunities. Simon Binkley got things started with a powerplay goal—his second in as many games—off assists from Edvin Nilsson and Erik Pastro. However, the Warriors quickly responded, with Sam LeDrew netting his 13th of the season just 51 seconds later to tie the game at 1-1 heading into the intermission.

Second Period:

Despite being outshot 5-1 in the early moments of the second, the Vipers regained the lead on Will Schumacher’s team-leading 10th goal, assisted by Blanck and Marko Stojkov. The momentum swung further in Vernon’s favor as their penalty kill successfully neutralized a 4-minute double minor, setting the stage for their own extended powerplay. With just two seconds left on the man advantage, Kyren Gronick fed Blanck for his first goal of the night, with Luke Bibby also earning an assist. The Vipers took a 3-1 lead into the final frame.

Third Period:

West Kelowna came out strong in the third, and Ian Alonso capitalized with an unassisted goal to cut the lead to 3-2. However, Vernon’s lethal powerplay struck again, as Blanck buried his second of the game with help from Stojkov and Bibby. Blanck wasn’t done, causing a turnover and setting up Charlie Kresl to seal the 5-2 victory.

Key Takeaways:

• Talan Blanck: A standout night with two goals and two assists, directly contributing to four of Vernon’s five goals.
• Special Teams: The Vipers’ powerplay (3-for-5) and penalty kill were crucial to the win.
• Jari Kykkanen: A steady presence in net, making 33 saves to anchor the team’s defense.

The win, Vernon’s 10th of the season, was a crucial one against a division rival. The Vipers now sit just two points behind the Warriors and three points behind Okotoks and Spruce Grove in the playoff race.

Up Next:

The Vipers return home to host the Sherwood Park Crusaders on Saturday night. Puck drop is at 6:00 PM. Don’t miss the action as Vernon looks to build on their momentum!