Duncan, BC: The Vernon Vipers (3-7-3-0) look to wrap up their month-long road trip on a winning note this afternoon when they visit the Cowichan Valley Capitals (10-4-1-0) at the Cowichan Community Centre.
This marks the final game of a seven-game stretch away from home and the lone meeting of the season between these two teams.
Vernon Vipers Notes
The Vipers are coming off a 5-3 setback last night in Alberni Valley. Deagan McMillan, Dmitrii Kubantsev and Edvin Nilsson found the back of the net, while Oliver Kanat turned aside 30 of 34 shots.
It was the team’s third straight loss — all one-goal games, with one sealed by an empty netter.
The powerplay struck on one of two chances, while the penalty kill remained strong, stopping four of five.
Nilsson continues to pace the Vipers offensively, while McMillan and Kubantsev have provided key secondary scoring during the road trip.
Cowichan Valley Capitals Notes
The Capitals earned a 4-2 win in Victoria last night, getting goals from four different players — Massimo Fazio, Jack McAra, Camden Charron and Slade Firkus.
Goaltender Rhett Stoesser stopped 26 of 28 shots in the victory.
Cowichan enters the game with the third-best goal differential in the BCHL (+21) and, by day’s end, will have played a league-high 16 games (tied with Blackfalds).
McAra leads the way with 5 goals and 12 assists, while Anthony Hall sits close behind with 6 goals and 10 assists.
Between the pipes, 20-year-old Stoesser has been outstanding — posting a 1.83 GAA (best among goalies with 6+ appearances) and a .919 save percentage, matching Vipers goaltender Oliver Kanat.
The Matchup
This is the first and only time these two teams will meet this season.
Vernon will look to close the trip strong and build momentum heading into their return home to Kal Tire Place next weekend.
Game Details
📍 Cowichan Community Centre
⏰ Puck drop 2:00 PM
🎙️ Pregame coverage begins at 1:45 on 107.5 Beach Radio, VernonMatters.ca, or watch live on FloHockey.
#TimeToStrike
