Vipers Look to Snap Winless Streak Against High-Flying Bandits
Brooks, AB: The Vernon Vipers wrap up their three-game road trip Saturday night as they take on the Brooks Bandits at the Centennial Regional Arena. The Vipers are looking to end a five-game winless skid, while the Bandits aim to extend their three-game winning streak.
Vipers (12-25-6-0) Searching for a Breakthrough
Vernon enters the contest following a 3-1 loss to Okotoks on Friday night. Ryan Watt provided the lone goal, his third as a Viper and 10th of the season, with assists from Eddie Revenig and Talan Blanck. Goaltender Jari Kykkanen was a standout, stopping 34 of 37 shots to keep his team in the game. The Vipers’ power play, which had been improving in recent outings, was held off the scoresheet (0-for-2), while their penalty kill remained perfect (3-for-3).
The Vipers have struggled in their last 10 games, going 2-7-1. They’ll need a strong performance to break through against a dominant Bandits squad.
Bandits (32-9-0-2) Riding High
Brooks comes into the matchup in top form, fresh off a commanding 9-2 win over Blackfalds to complete a sweep of their home-and-home series. Over those two games, they outscored the Bulldogs 15-2, showcasing their offensive firepower. Nathan Free continues to lead the charge for the Bandits, tallying 27 goals and 29 assists on the season.
Brooks has been nearly unstoppable of late, winning eight of their last 10 games (8-2-0). Their home record of 15-5-0-1 makes them a tough opponent in their own building.
Head-to-Head Stats
- Vernon: 6-15-1 on the road
- Brooks: 15-5-0-1 at home
Puck drop is set for 7:00 PM Mountain Time at Centennial Regional Arena.