West Kelowna, BC: Thomas Tien and Lee Parks had a pair of goals and Connor Welsh had a powerplay goal as the Vernon Vipers evened up the best of seven series with the Warriors after a 5-4 win at Royal Lepage Place.
Thomas Tien, who now has 4 goals in his last 3 games dating back to the regular season, got the scoring started with a deflection. Thirteen minutes later on the opposite side of the ice he’d get another deflection to give the Vipers a 3-0 lead.
Sandwiched in between the Tien goals, was a Connor Welsh powerplay goal. Welsh returned to the lineup sniping his first of the playoffs.
Lee Parks scored his team leading second and third goals of the playoffs including the game winner in the 3rd period. His first of the night came off an interception while on the powerplay. His second and game winner came early in the 3rd period off a deflection. He’s got 3 goals and 1 assist in two playoff games.
Connor Elliott had a pair of primary assists from nearly the identical spot on the ice with shots about the same height off the ice.
Ethan David was solid in his second playoff start of his career making 24 saves on 28 shots.
The Vipers powerplay finished the night 2 for 7, the penalty kill struggled killing off just 2 of 5.
Christopher Duclair has gotten off to a hot start including 3 points last night (1G, 2A). He has 5 points in the first two games of the series.
Riley Sharun registered 3 assists in the game.
Cayden Hamming made 24 saves on 29 shots.
Game 3 will go Tuesday night in Vernon at 7pm.
Photo Credit – Tami Quan Photography
