Brooks, AB: The Vernon Vipers will look to build off a strong effort in Spruce Grove last night as they roll into the Centennial Regional Arena for a matchup with the Brooks Bandits.
The Vipers (3-9-4-0) showed real push, battling back from a three-goal deficit to force overtime and earn a valuable point in a 5-4 decision.
Deagan McMillan and Leon Bussmann both had a goal and an assist—Bussmann doing so in his first BCHL game. The powerplay was a major factor, striking 3 times on 7 opportunities, though Vernon did give up a shorthanded marker. Oliver Kanat finished with 22 saves in the overtime loss.
Brooks (9-7-1-0) snapped a small slide last night, rolling past Sherwood Park 7-3 on home ice.
Jack Good scored twice, while Alexei Zhukov and Krists Retenais each picked up two points. Goaltender Zach Zahara was sharp, stopping 39 of 42 shots. The Bandits powerplay was a difference-maker, going 3 for 5.
In recent form, the Vipers are 2-5-3 in their last 10, while Brooks sits at 5-5.
Vernon enters the night 2-5-1 on the road, while Brooks is 4-3-1 at home.
Tonight marks the first of four meetings between the teams this season.
