The Vipers scored a powerplay goal from Jack Judson, an even strength marker from Brett Stapley and Ty Taylor turned away 35 saves for his 2nd shutout of the season as the Vernon Vipers defeated the Powell River Kings 2-0 at Kal Tire Place.
The first period was simply two good teams going head to head. There were plenty of hances at both ends as both goaltenders looked locked in. Ty Taylor and Mitch Adamyk thwarted the oppositions offense at every turn. The Viper powerplay went 0 for 1, but their PK stopped two Powell River chances, a narrative that would continue through the rest of the hockey game. The shots finished 12-11 in favour of the Snakes.
The Vipers penalty kill was a big reason the Vipers had success in the second period. That spurred the Snakes on as their powerplay connected for the second straight game as Jack Judson put home his 5th goal of the season after a nice pass from Tanner Wishnowski. Ty Taylor and the penalty kill were tested in sequence as the Kings had a handful of chances on the powerplay. Most notably, Carter Turnbull who had an empty net, but misfired. That kill was important as Brett Stapley was sprung on a breakaway out of the penalty box and as he was hauled down, the puck crossed the line as Stapley slid into the goalie. The officials would discuss the play, but in the end it was called a goal and the Vipers took a 2-0 lead into the dressing room after 2 periods.
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In the third, the Kings, as expected came out motivated to equalize the game. The Vipers were able to minimize the grade A chances, despite their PK being tested. The Vipers controlled the puck when possible and squeezed up in the neutral zone to minimize the potent transition game of Powell River. The Vipers had a few chances of their own, but the goaltending at both ends was outstanding. Despite a late flurry from the Kings, the Vipers blocked some big shots and got some big saves from Ty Taylor who finished the night with 35 saves for his 6th win of the year. The final score was 2-0 as the Vipers took both games this weekend.
The Vipers will wrap up their 3 game homestand next Saturday against the Surrey Eagles.
