Vernon, BC: For the second time this season, the Vernon Vipers and Trail Smoke Eaters battled down to the wire, but once again it was Trail who came out on top with a 4-3 victory Friday night at Kal Tire Place.
The Vipers carried a 3-2 lead into the third period on goals from Michael Munroe, Sam Charko and Evan Sundar. Newcomers Tyler Chiovetti and Oscar Bjork each picked up an assist in their Vipers debut.
Brendan Gee turned aside 29 of 33 shots in goal for Vernon, who finished the night 0-for-4 on the powerplay. The penalty kill was busy, stopping seven of eight Trail opportunities, with the lone blemish coming on a 5-on-3 advantage.
Dylan Lariviere, Erik Pastro, Gairin Michalski and George Stavrianeas provided the offence for the Smoke Eaters, while Cooper Michaluk made 25 saves on 28 shots for the win.
With the result, Vernon drops to 0-2-1 to start the season, while Trail improves to a perfect 3-0-0.
The Smoke Eaters continue their road swing Saturday in Chilliwack, while the Vipers return home for a 6 p.m. matchup with the Cranbrook Bucks. Tickets are available at the box office or online at vernonvipers.com.
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