(Game Preview) Vernon @ Merritt:

Vernon (6-0-0-0) @ Merritt (1-4-1-1)  7:30pm start

Tonight is the second meeting of the season between these two teams as Merritt defeated Vernon 3-2 at home during the pre-season back on September, 10th.  Merritt comes into tonights game winless in their last five games.  The Centennials lone victory of the season was a 4-3 win in Prince George back on September, 24th.  Tonights contest is the first of a six game home stand for the Centennials after coming off back to back losses on the road in Penticton & Westside.  Vernon comes into Merritt tonight 6-0 atop the Interior Conference standings, tonight is the first of a three game road trip for the Vipers.  You can listen to tonight's game live with Don Klepp and Todd Miller starting with the pre-game show at 7:15pm on 107.5 Kiss FM

Last Game Played:

Friday, October 7th Vernon defeated Chilliwack 4-1
Friday, October 7th Westside defeated Merritt 5-2

Next Game:

Friday, October 14th Vernon @ Chilliwack
October 13th Powell River @ Merritt

Since the 2002-03 season Vernon is 46-6-0-6 vs. Merritt

Since the 2002-03 season Vernon has outscored Merritt 263-133

Since the 2003-04 season Vernon is 20-2-0-3 at home vs. Merritt

Since the 2003-04 season Vernon is 20-1-0-4 in Merritt

The Vipers are 8-0-0-2 in their last ten games at home vs. the Centennials

The Vipers are 9-0-0-1 in their last ten games on the road vs. the Centennials

The Vipers are 8-0-0-2 in their last ten games vs. Merritt

The Vipers are 23-0-0-2 in their last 25 games vs Merritt

The Vipers last loss in Merritt was a 4-3 overtime loss back on Friday, November 5th 2010

The Vipers went 3-0-0-3 last season vs the Merritt Centennials during the regular season.

The Vernon Lakers changed their name to the Vernon Vipers to start the 1995-96 season. Here’s a look at the Vipers all-time regular season record

Games Played: 966
Wins: 624
Losses: 245
Ties: 15
Overtime Losses: 84

For more stats & former Vernon Junior Hockey Team rosters & lineups please visit Paul’s Vernon Junior Hockey History website,

http://members.shaw.ca/vernonfranchise/index.html

Lets take a look at the Vernon Vipers:

Games Played: 6
Wins: 6
Losses: 0
Ties: 0
Overtime Losses: 0
Home Record: 4-0-0-0
Road Record: 2-0-0-0
Goals For: 26
Goals Against: 12
Standings: 1st Place
Vernon Vipers Returning Players:

Marcus Basara (93)
Brett Corkey (92)
Aaron Hadley (93)
John Knisley (92)
Patrick McGillis (91)
Max Mowat (93)
Darren Nowick (91)
Ryan Renz (93)
Colton Sparrow (93)
Michael Zalewski (92)
Kirby Halcrow (91)

Vernon Vipers Departing & traded players from last years team:

Dylan Walchuk (92)
David Robinson (90)
Bryce Kakoske (90)
Malcolm Lyles (90)
Trevor Fitzgerald (92)
Adam Thompson (90)
Steven Weinstein (90)
Kyle Murphy (90)
Dane Muench (92)
Philip Patenaude (91)
Zach McPhee (93)
Blake Voth (91)

Vernon's Home record vs. Merritt last season:

1-0-0-2

Vernon's Road record vs. Merritt last season:

2-0-0-1

Vernon’s Powerplay vs. Merritt last season:

7-23

Vernon’s scoring leaders vs. Merritt last season:

Dylan Walchuk (5-3-8)
David Robinson (4-4-8)
John Knisley (2-5-7)
Bryce Kakoske (2-4-6)
Malcolm Lyles (1-4-5)
Steven Weinstein (2-2-4)
Darren Nowick (1-3-4)
Marcus Basara (3-1-4)
Kyle Murphy (0-4-4)
Michael Zalewski (1-2-3)
Ryan Renz (1-2-3)
Dane Muench (0-3-3)
Max Mowat (0-2-2)
Aaron Hadley (0-2-2)
Brett Corkey (1-1-2)
Adam Thompson (0-2-2)
Philip Patenaude (0-1-1)
Patrick McGillis (0-1-1)
Colton Sparrow (0-1-1)

Blake Voth (2-2 Record)
Kirby Halcrow (1-0 Record)

Let's take a look at the trades the Vipers have made so far this season.

27-Jun-11 The Vernon Vipers Hockey Club acquires the CJHL playing rights of Luke Juha (93)(D) from the Burlington Cougars Hockey Club of the OJHL in exchange for future considerations.

02-Aug-11 The Vernon Vipers Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Dane Muench (92)(F), Phillip Patenaude (91)(D) and future considerations to the Kindersley Klippers Hockey Club in exchange for the playing rights of Jarryd Ten Vannholt and Justin Elliot.

19-Sep-11 The Vernon Vipers Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Jarryd Ten Vaanholt (91)(F) to the Victoria Grizzles Hockey Club in exchange for future considerations.

Key’s and Notes to tonight’s game:

-Vernon has the leagues 2nd best powerplay

-The Vipers have the BCHL's 2nd best penalty kill

-Michael Zalewski (5-4-9), Adam Tambellini (5-3-8), Darren Nowick (4-3-7) & Patrick McGillis (4-3-7) are all in the leagues top twenty in scoring

Lets take a look at the Merritt Centennials:

Games Played: 7
Wins: 1
Losses: 4
Ties: 1
Overtime Losses: 1
Home Record: 0-1-0-1
Road Record: 1-3-1-0
Goals For: 20
Goals Against: 33
Standings: Tied with Chilliwack for 4th Place

Merritt Centennials Returning Players:

Chad Brears (91)
Brent Fletcher (92)
Silvan Harper (92)
Dustin Lebrun (92)
Sean Maktaak (92)
Billy Marshall (91)
Brandon Pfeil (92)
Dylan Playfair (92)
Jakob Reichert (93)
David Sabey (91)
Richard Sabourin (92)
Regan Soquila (93)
Evan Stack (91)
Stephen Wall (91)
Reece Willcox (94)
Lino Chimienti (91)
Tyler Steel (93)

Departing & traded players from last years team:

Kameran Crawford (91)
Max Vallis (91)
Jeff Jones (91)
Blaine Bokenfohr (90)
Steve Tresierra (90)
Brett Kolins (92)

At Home last season vs. Vernon:

1-1-0-1

On The Road last season vs. Vernon:

2-1-0-0

Merritt’s Powerplay vs. Vernon last season:

7-24

Merritt’s scoring leaders vs. Vernon last season:

Jeff Jones (2-4-6)
Evan Stack (0-4-4)
Regan Soquila (4-1-5)
Max Vallis (2-1-3)
Chad Brears (1-2-3)
Stephen Wall (0-3-3)
Steve Tresierra (1-1-2)
Sean Maktaak (2-1-3)
Brandon Pfeil (1-1-2)
Kameran Crawford (0-1-1)
Jakob Reichert (0-1-1)
Reece Willcox (0-2-2)
Brent Fletcher (0-1-1)
Billy Marshall (0-1-1)
Dustin Lebrun (1-0-1)
Jon-Paul Witkop (0-1-1)
Blaine Bokenfohr (0-1-1)

Tyler Steel (2-1 Record)
Lino Chimienti (1-1 Record)

Let's take a look at the trades the Centennials have made this season.

30-Sep-11 The Merritt Centennials Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Stephen Wall (91)(F) to the Sherwood Park Crusaders of the AJHL in exchange for future considerations.

Key’s and Notes to tonight’s game:

-Merritt has the leagues 11th best powerplay

-The Cents have the BCHL's 13th best penalty kill

-Former Merritt Centennial and Vernon Vipers forward, Luke Pierce faces his former team for the first time this season

-Goaltender, Tyler Steel faces his former team this season.  Steel was cut by the Vipers last year and then signed with the Centennials to start the regular season

For more on the Merritt Centennials and tonights game, visit Brian Wiebe's Merritt Centennials Blog, http://merrittcentennials.blogspot.com/

Here’s a look at the season series between these two teams from last season:

Tuesday, September 21st @ Vernon: Merritt wins 5-4 (double overtime)

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

Vernon Vipers at 3:34 - Dylan Walchuk from Marcus Basara and David Robinson
Merritt Centennials at 5:50 (PP) - Regan Soquila from Stephen Wall
Merritt Centennials at 19:43 (PP) - Dustin Johnson from Kameran Crawford and Jeff Jones

PERIOD 2

Vernon Vipers at 11:17 (PP) - Steven Weinstein from Bryce Kakoske and Kyle Murphy

PERIOD 3

Vernon Vipers at 3:53 - Marcus Basara from Dylan Walchuk and David Robinson
Merritt Centennials at 6:44 (PP) - Jeff Jones from Dustin Johnson and Max Vallis
Merritt Centennials at 16:52 (PS) - Dustin Johnson (unassisted)
Vernon Vipers at 19:28 - Dylan Walchuk from John Knisley and Philip Patenaude

OVERTIME PERIOD 2

Merritt Centennials at 2:20 - Jeff Zmurchyk from Stephen Wall

Vernon outshot Merritt 34-24. Tyler Steel made 30 saves picking up his first career BCHL win, while Bryton Udy took the loss in his BCHL debut.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=839996&link=bchl

Sunday, October 3rd @ Merritt: Vernon wins 4-3 (Overtime)

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

Merritt Centennials at 2:34 - Regan Soquila (unassisted)

PERIOD 2

Merritt Centennials at 3:28 - Max Vallis from Jeff Jones and Jakob Reichert
Vernon Vipers at 4:28 - Bryce Kakoske from Michael Zalewski
Vernon Vipers at 10:02 - Michael Zalewski from Adam Thompson
Merritt Centennials at 12:48 - Max Vallis (unassisted)

PERIOD 3

Vernon Vipers at 1:53 - Marcus Basara from Max Mowat and John Knisley

OVERTIME PERIOD 1

Vernon Vipers at 4:36 - David Robinson from Dylan Walchuk and Adam Thompson
Vernon outshot Merritt 31-18. Blake Voth made 15 saves getting the win, while Jared Anderson made 27 saves taking the loss.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=840247&link=bchl

Friday, November 5th @ Merritt: Merritt wins 4-3 in overtime

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

No Scoring

PERIOD 2

Vernon Vipers at 0:29 (PP) - Michael Zalewski from John Knisley and Malcolm Lyles
Vernon Vipers at 8:44 - John Knisley from Michael Zalewski and Aaron Hadley
Vernon Vipers at 10:05 - Todd Skirving from Nicholas Kerr and Darren Nowick

PERIOD 3

Merritt Centennials at 12:45 (PP) - Steve Tresierra from Evan Stack and Brent Fletcher
Merritt Centennials at 16:43 - Jeff Jones from Regan Soquila and Reece Willcox
Merritt Centennials at 19:06 (PP) - Sean Maktaak from Steve Tresierra and Brandon Pfeil

OVERTIME PERIOD 1

Merritt Centennials at 1:45 - Brandon Pfeil from Chad Brears and Sean Maktaak

Merritt outshot Vernon 38-29. Tyler Steel made 26 saves for the win, while Blake Voth made 34 saves in the loss.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=840248&link=bchl  

Tuesday, January 18th @ Vernon: Vernon wins 6-0

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

Vernon Vipers at 1:47 - Malcolm Lyles from Steven Weinstein and John Knisley

PERIOD 2

Vernon Vipers at 2:12 (PP) - Steven Weinstein from Dylan Walchuk and Darren Nowick Vernon Vipers at 11:45 - Brett Corkey from Kyle Murphy and Ryan Renz Vernon Vipers at 15:20 (PP) - Dylan Walchuk from Darren Nowick and Dane Muench

PERIOD 3

Vernon Vipers at 18:53 - Ryan Renz from David Robinson and Kyle Murphy Vernon Vipers at 19:22 - David Robinson from Bryce Kakoske and Ryan Renz

Vernon outshot Merritt 36-19. Blake Voth made 19 saves for the win-shutout, while Tyler Steel made 30 saves in the loss.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=839997&link=bchl

Friday, February 11th @ Vernon: Merritt wins 3-2 in overtime

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

Merritt Centennials at 8:51 - Dustin Lebrun from Stephen Wall

PERIOD 2

Vernon Vipers at 9:10 (PP) - Darren Nowick from John Knisley and Brett Corkey Vernon Vipers at 17:44 - Dylan Walchuk from Dane Muench and Adam Thompson

PERIOD 3

Merritt Centennials at 2:40 - Regan Soquila from Evan Stack and Jeff Jones

OVERTIME PERIOD 1

Merritt Centennials at 4:35 - Chad Brears from Billy Marshall and Evan Stack
Vernon outshot Merritt 35-22. Lino Chimienti made 33 saves in the win, while Blake Voth made 19 saves in the loss.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=839998&link=bchl

Tuesday, February 15th @ Merritt: Vernon wins 5-2

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

Merritt Centennials at 2:01 (PP) - Sean Maktaak from Reece Willcox and Blaine Bokenfohr
Vernon Vipers at 16:57 - Marcus Basara from Colton Sparrow and Malcolm Lyles

PERIOD 2

Vernon Vipers at 4:51 (PP) - John Knisley from Adam Thompson and Bryce Kakoske
Vernon Vipers at 6:53 (PP) - David Robinson from Bryce Kakoske and Malcolm Lyles

PERIOD 3

Merritt Centennials at 9:42 (PP) - Regan Soquila from Jeff Jones and Jon-Paul Witkop
Vernon Vipers at 9:56 - Dylan Walchuk from Patrick McGillis and Dane Muench
Vernon Vipers at 15:14 - Bryce Kakoske from David Robinson and Kyle Murphy

Vernon outshot Merritt 38-30. Lino Chimienti made 33 saves in the loss, while Kirby Halcrow made 28 saves in the win.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=840249

Here's a look at both teams rosters:

Vernon:

Michael Zalewski (5-4-9)
Adam Tambellini (5-3-8)
Patrick McGillis (4-3-7)
Darren Nowick (4-3-7)
Marcus Basara (1-6-7)
Aaron Hadley (1-4-5)
Marc Hetnik (1-3-4)
Brett Corkey (0-4-4)
John Knisley (1-2-3)
Colton Sparrow (2-1-3)
Jedd Soleway (1-1-2)
Ryan Renz (0-2-2)
Geoff Crisfield (0-1-1)
Max Mowat (0-1-1)
Connor Hartley (0-1-1)
Alex Hagen (1-0-1)
Luke Juha (0-1-1)
Turner Lawson (0-0-0)
Riley Hunt (0-0-0)

Kirby Halcrow (4-0 Record, 1.97 GAA)
Danny Todosychuk (2-0 Record, 1.98 GAA)

Merritt:

Regan Soquila (1-6-7)
Brandon Pfeil (2-4-6)
Evan Stack (2-4-6)
Jakob Reichert (1-4-5)
Chad Brears (2-3-5)
Brandon Bruce (3-1-4)
Silvan Harper (2-1-3)
Billy Marshall (1-2-3)
Brent Fletcher (2-1-3)
Richard Sabourin (1-2-3)
Reece Willcox (0-3-3)
Brendan Lamont (1-1-2)
Dustin Lebrun (0-2-2)
Payton Schaefer (1-0-1)
Dylan Chanter (0-1-1)
Sean Maktaak (0-0-0)
Tyler Martin (0-0-0)
Ross Mancuso (0-0-0)

Tyler Steel (1-2-1 Record, 3.72 GAA)
Lino Chimienti (0-3 Record, 5.33 GAA)

Vipers Stay Undefeated:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Vipers stay undefeated

by Don Klepp | Added 2011-10-08

Darren Nowick was the game's first star.

Another solid defensive effort gave the Vernon Vipers a 4-1 home victory versus the Chilliwack Chiefs on Friday. In the process, they ran their early season record to six straight wins.

The Vipers dominated the first period, outshooting the Chiefs 12 to 5 and out-chancing the visitors 7 to 1. Chief netminder Mitch Gillam kept his team in the game with several big saves, none bigger than his sensational glove save on Darren Nowick at the 13-minute mark.

The line of Nowick, John Knisley, and Mike Zalewski were difficult to contain for the entire game, as exemplified the three way passing play that had Gillam at Nowick’s mercy. Nowick’s shot from 10 feet seemed destined for the top corner, but Gillam propelled himself across his crease to snatch the puck out of midair.

Later in the period, Colton Sparrow’s backhand wormed its way through Gillam, but the puck dropped to the goal line, where Gillam sat on it. In the second period, Gillam took sure goals away from Adam Tambellini and John Knisley.

Kirby Halcrow also had his chances to shine. Near the end of the first period, from a broken play, Kit Sitterley snapped shot from 15 feet, through a screen. Halcrow somehow got his glove on the rising shot.

At 1:57 of the second period, Max Mowat hauled down Trevor Hills, who was awarded a penalty shot. Hills tried a series of moves, but Halcrow stayed square to the shooter and denied Hills with his right pad.

During the next shift Adam Tambellini pounced on a long rebound from a hard Brett Corkey slapper and the talented rookie fired over Gillam’s left shoulder at 2:27. That 1-0 lead seemed in jeopardy when penalties to Darren Nowick and Luke Juha gave the Chiefs a two-man. The Chiefs generated just one scoring chance and the Vipers seemed energized by their penalty kill.

That energy resulted in a second goal at 11:23, following a dominant shift by Zalewski, Knisley, and Nowick. Circling off the left sidewall, Knisley fired a hard shot that Gillam stopped but could not find in his feet. Nowick swooped in to poke in the loose puck.

Between the two goals, however, the Chiefs chipped a puck past a pinching Viper D-man, which created a 3-on-1 rush. At the decisive moment near the Viper net, Kirby Halcrow poke checked the Chief trigger man.

Colton Sparrow gave the Vipers a 3-0 lead at 2:27 of the third period when he came off the right side wall and snapped a shot over Gillam from the right faceoff circle. The play resulted from a good forecheck by his linemates, Jedd Soleway and Marcus Basara.

Four minutes later, Chilliwack used their persistent forecheck to create a goal by Josh Hansen, who buried a rebound of a Trevor Hills shot.

Alex Hagen collected his first BCHL goal on the power play at 17:29 as he fired a laser over Gillam’s catching glove. Luke Juha, who was named the game’s second star, collected an assist on the play.

Aside from the excellent goaltending, one of the key features of this game was the Viper penalty killing, which blanked Chilliwack’s four chances and which has allowed just one goal in 31 power plays against in six games.

The other notable feature was the fierce body checking by both teams. Brett Corkey’s steamroller on Chris Blessing at centre ice was the hit of the game, and Jaret Babych’s rubout of Patrick McGillis sent the Viper captain to the hospital for x-rays. McGillis did not sustain any breaks, but he will out of action for a while.

Vernon 4 Chilliwack 1

I was at tonights BCHL game as Vernon defeated Chilliwack 4-1 in front of 1,467 fans at the Wesbild Centre.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon: Kirby Halcrow
Chilliwack: Mitch Gillam

1st Period: The Chilliwack Chiefs made their first visit to the Wesbild Centre since a 4-1 loss to the Vipers back on Saturday, February 4th 2006. Off the opening faceoff Michael Spring levelled Brett Corkey in a huge hit inside the Vipers blueline. The Vipers got off to a quick start, getting the play in deep and creating some good scoring opportunities early and often. Mitch Gillam made his first big save of the night after making a nice pad save off Colton Sparrow who ripped a hard shot coming down off the right wing. The Chiefs who couldnt get much of anything going needed almost four minutes to register their first shot on goal. Five minutes into the period Vernon with some nice give and go passing setup Adam Tambellini in the slot who was stopped by Gillam. On the same shift the Vipers would give Chilliwack an early powerplay, their first of the night. The Vipers would get lucky after a shot hit the end boards taking a funny bounce and come right back out front of Kirby Halcrow, but no Chief players were in sight as the Vipers managed to clear the puck. A strong penalty kill by Vernon would kill off the minor. The Vipers went back to the offensive attack and poured on the pressure deep in the Chiefs zone. Darren Nowick with a good chance in front was stopped by Gillam. Mike Zalewski with some hard work down low, carried the puck inbehind the Chiefs goal, dishing off to John Knisley who fed a wide open Darren Nowick in the slot but Mitch Gillam come across the crease to rob Nowick making a huge glove save, on a shot that Nowick and all Viper fans thought had gone in the net. The line of Zalewski, Nowick and Knisley was buzzing all night. Chilliwack who couldnt seem to get out of their own end with just two shots in the first half of the opening period. The Vipers thought they may have scored again after a quick shot from in close just snuck through Gillam, landing on the goaline before Gillam fell on the puck on a close call. Late in the period the Vipers would lose captain, Patrick McGillis who went down inside the Vernon blueline. I didnt see the play but McGillis who needed help off the ice, was very slow and putting no pressure on one leg-skate before leaving the hockey game and not returning. The Chiefs would finally get their first scoring opportunity of the night, coming with four minutes remaining Malcolm Gould with a chance in close went high and over the top corner. Chilliwack started to put a little pressure on the Vernon defence, as the Chiefs with some late pressure come up with another good scoring chance. Kirby Halcrow made a big pad save off Jeremy Gossard's shot from the slot. Vernon dominated the opening period and really took it to the Chiefs getting all kinds of scoring chances but the Vipers couldnt capitalize. It was 0-0 after 20 minutes of play. Vernon outshot Chilliwack 12-5.

2nd Period: Vernon would get an early powerplay just twenty two seconds into the middle frame. The Vipers moved the puck around very slowly, setting up John Knisley at the side of the goal who ripped a hard shot, Mitch Gillam come across the crease to make a huge blocker save robbing Knisley. On the same shift, Trevor Hills shorthanded went in on the parcial breakaway, Marc Hetnik was forced to give Hills the hook resulting in a penalty shot. Hills would be stopped by Halcrow who stayed with the Chiefs shooter making a big pad save keeping the game scoreless. On the next shift just as the powerplay come to an end, Adam Tambellini beat Mitch Gillam at 2:27 giving Vernon a 1-0 lead, Brett Corkey and Aaron Hadley collected the assists. This may have been the turning point of the hockey game, the Chiefs who were getting outplayed have a chance to open the scoring on a penalty shot, they dont and on the next shift give up a goal just after killing off the man advantage and go down 1-0. The Chiefs come right back, Chris Blessing, Kit Sitterley and Spencer Graboski come in on the three on one, Sitterley decides to keep, moving in close and then was stopped by Halcrow who made a huge save keeping this a one goal game. On the next shift Jaret Babych from the top of the faceoff circle was stopped by Kirby Halcrow who was now starting to face some rubber. The Vipers were caught running around in their own end, wich resulted in giving Chilliwack a powerplay. The Vipers would get called for another penalty giving the Chiefs a two man advantage. Some strong penalty kill by Vernon would kill off the first man advantage, as Darren Nowick just out of the penalty box raced for the loose puck, getting a breakaway, with a Chiefs d-man right behind him, Nowick got in too deep getting off a late shot that was stopped by Mitch Gillam, Nowick would collect the rebound and get two more chances in front just missing the net on his second attempt and then getting stoned by Gillam on his third try, all shorthanded. The Vipers strong penalty kill would kill off the two man advantage. On the next shift the Vipers with two good chances in close, a nice feed setup Adam Tambellini in the slot who was stopped by Gillam and then Alex Hagen who made his return to the Vipers lineup tonight after being out with an injury ripped a hard shot from the slot that hit someone in front and just went wide of the goal. Back come Chilliwack as the play started to open up a little as both teams went back and forth with some chances. Malcolm Gould on a two on one, decided to keep but missed the goal on a great opportunity. The Chiefs looked like a much different club come the 2nd period giving the Vipers a good battle. Just past the midway Vernon with some pressure down low, fired three quick shots towards Mitch Gillam who made back to back saves but couldnt see or handle the rebound that was sitting below him between his pads-legs, as Gillam went down Darren Nowick was in front banging home the loose puck giving Vernon a 2-0 lead at 11:23, John Knisley and Mike Zalewski picked up the helpers. The Chiefs tried arguing the call, saying that Gillam had the puck covered but the goal stood. Chilliwack didnt go away and come back again with some good pressure, the Chiefs who didnt really generate as much offence as the Vernon Vipers still caught the Vipers running around in their own end at times and turning over the puck. The Vipers looked a little shaky in their own end as Kirby Halcrow had to be alert making some key saves. Chilliwack who got their legs going, played a much better period coming up with some good chances but couldnt capitalize. The Vipers also with some real good chances, hit the back of the net twice taking a two goal lead into the 3rd. A more even played period with chances at both ends of the rink. Vernon was up 2-0 after 40 minutes of play. The Chiefs outshot the Vipers 13-11.

3rd Period: The Vipers would get off to a good start to open the final frame, Marcus Basara who nearly got caught rushing the puck out from his own end, got through and around three Chief players before carrying the puck up ice, getting the play in deep asv the Vipers were buzzing in and around the goal before Vernon product, Colton Sparrow caught Mitch Gillam cheating, and roofed his shot up and over the shoulders of Gillam giving Vernon a 3-0 lead at 2:27, Marcus Basara with all the work created this goal, picking up the lone assist on the play. Just minutes later the Vipers would get an early powerplay. A strong penalty kill by Chilliwack and the Chiefs killed off the minor. Just as the penalty expired Michael Spring setup Trevor Hills in front on a two on one, Halcrow looked to have made the save but somehow the puck got through and into the back of the net as Chilliwack was within two at 6:20, Spring and Shay Laurent picked up the helpers. On the next play Mitch Gillam would take a shot off his mask but shook things off and stayed in the game. Alex Hagen with a burst of speed with a nice shot coming down the wing couldnt sneak one past Gillam. Not alot of action in the first half as both teams seemed to have a little trouble getting things going. The Chiefs once again caught the Vipers with troubles in their own end, Michael Spring with a nice feed in front setup Jaret Babych on a two on one in close but Halcrow made the save. A few minutes later Malcolm Gould and Josh Hansen on another odd man rush couldnt capitalize as the Vipers got a little sloppy in their own end. Vernon would get its second powerplay of the 3rd but again a strong Chilliwack penalty kill, killed off the minor. Vernon would get a late powerplay, Luke Juha's point shot was stopped by Gillam who couldnt stop Alex Hagen on the rebound giving the Vipers a 4-1 lead at 17:29, Juha and Brett Corkey with the assists. This goal seemed t deflate the Chiefs as Vernon's speed and skill was just too much for Chilliwack on this night. In the end the Vipers would defeat the Chiefs 4-1, as Vernon improved to 6-0 while Chilliwack takes its first loss of the season, dropping to 2-1. Vernon outshot Chilliwack 10-9.

Top Players: (Vernon)

Brett Corkey (2 assists) Played another strong, yet physical game on the Vipers blueline. Corkey has played very well so far this young season.

Adam Tambellini (1 goal) Played very well up front for Vernon. Tamebllini with atleast three or four scoring opportunities was really skating and generating some good chances.

Riley Hunt who didnt back down from a few pushing and shoving matches in the 1ts period, played with alot of energy, had lots of jump to his game tonight and was another Vernon Viper who was really skating hard. I dont recall seeing Hunt in the 3rd period.

The line of John Knisley (1 assist), Mike Zalewski (1 assist) and Darren Nowick (1 goal) was the Vipers top line tonight. This line has also played very well so far this young season. Knisley with atleast two good scoring chances, Nowick was robbed in the opening period on wich looked like a sure goal, also played very well on the penalty kill, come up with some great chances shorthanded. Worked and competed hard all night. Zalewski really used his size and strength tonight in and around the net, battled and competed hard, ran over a few Chilliwack players in and around the goal, was very hard to knock off the puck down low.

Alex Hagen (1 goal) I didnt think Alex played alot in the opening period but seemed to notice him out their in the 3rd. I thought for just returning from a leg injury and only playing in just one of the Vipers previous five games played fairly well. Seemed to hold his own, come up with a few good chances and created a few plays down low as well.

Luke Juha (1 assist) Played a solid game on the Vernon Vipers backend. Really looked good with and without the puck.

Kirby Halcrow (26 saves) Didnt see alot of rubber but made some big saves at key times through out tonights game. His stop on the penalty shot as well as the three on one were both game savers. Nice to see Kirby back between the pipes and almost come close to giving the Vipers back to back shutouts.

Game Thoughts: (Vernon)

The theme for tonight's game was retro-80s night at the Wesbild Centre, wich also ment that the Vipers unveiled their new retro jerseys for tonight's game. The Vipers wore basically the old Vernon Lakers-Edmonton Oilers away jersey with the word Vernon written across the front with the players number below. Kind of like Chilliwacks home jerseys but in blue and orange.  Very sharp looking. Will the Vipers wear these jerseys again? Im not sure. I thought the Vipers played a fairly good game and overall were the better of the two teams. Vernon who was all over Chilliwack in the 1st period, really took it to the Chiefs getting all kinds of great opporunities but couldnt capitalize. Chilliwack really turned their game around in the 2nd and battled hard but overall the Vipers speed, skill and talent was just too much to handle. The Vipers with more scoring opporunities are a more skilled team over the Chiefs. Again Vernon's penalty kill was very sharp, the Vipers had a little trouble in their own end at times and a few blind passes resulting in offensive turnovers but overall this team is playing some pretty good hockey with a 6-0 record.

Top Players: (Chilliwack)

Tyler Miller the Chiefs captain played a strong game on the Chilliwack blueline. Saw alot of icetime and made some very smart defensive plays.

Jaret Babych played fairly well through out tonights contest.

The line of Malcolm Gould, Josh Hansen and Trevor Hills (1 goal) was the Chiefs most effective line. Gould really moved the puck well, created some chances and was in and around the net. Trevor Hills who was stopped by Kirby Halcrow on the penalty shot was by far the Chiefs best player. Has some wheels and is very good with the puck.

Michael Spring (1 assist) Also looked and played very well up front for Chilliwack. Another player who was involved in the play alot, created and setup some scoring opporunities.

Mitch Gillam (29 saves) Played very well between the pipes for Chilliwack, made some huge saves early and often in the opening period giving the Chiefs a chance to win.  If it wasnt for Gillam in the opening period, this could have easily been a 6 or 7-1 final.

Game Thoughts: (Chilliwack)

First off its great to see the Chilliwack Chiefs return to the BCHL. Since the Chiefs moved to Chilliwack in 1990 Vernon-Chilliwack games have always been one of the great rivalries in the league with some classic games played over the years. I really liked the Chiefs home jerseys, very sharp looking. Chilliwack who didnt look good at all in the 1st was outplayed most of the opening period, the Chiefs just couldnt get out of their own end, but turned things around come the 2nd period. They seemed to get their legs going, and started to force the Vipers into making a few mistakes. Also got the offence going, and created some real nice scoring chance. Missed opportunities is what cost them, a goal on the penalty shot or on a three on one just after the Vipers take a 1-0 lead and it may be a different game. Chilliwack played much better for the 2nd and 3rd periods but overall dont have the speed, skill and talent the Vipers do.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Turner Lawson

Chilliwack:

Alex Perron-Fontaine

3 Stars:

1st Star: Darren Nowick (1 goal)
2nd Star: Luke Juha (1 assist)
3rd Star: Trevor Hills (1 goal)

For more on tonight's game check out the boxscore,

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977414&link=bchl

Former Vipers Head Coach-GM Mark Ferner Picks Up First Win As Silvertips Head Coach:

Former Vernon Vipers head coach-gm, Mark Ferner picked up his first career win as the head coach-gm of the Everett Silvertips with a 4-2 victory over the visiting Portland Winterhawks tonight. The Silvertips are now 1-3 in the regular season as they host Kamloops tomorrow night. Ferner spent the last four seasons with the Vipers (2007-2010) before joining the Silvertips this summer.

Here is a look at the game summary,

http://whl.ca/schedule/show/game/60239

(Game Preview) Chilliwack @ Vernon:

Chilliwack (2-0-0-0) @ Vernon (5-0-0-0) 7pm start

After fifteen seasons in the BCHL the Quesnel Millionaires moved to Chilliwack. On May 9, 2011, the BCHL approved the sale of the Quesnel Millionaires to the Chiefs Development Group in Chilliwack, BC. The former Chiefs franchise was renamed the Langley Rivermen in preparation for the Millionaires' return to Chilliwack. The Chiefs left the BCHL after the 2005-06 season for Langley after the Hornets moved to Westside becoming the Warriors, this bringing in the WHL Bruins to Chilliwack.

Tonight one of the BCHL's greatest rivalries renews as the Chilliwack Chiefs visit the Vernon Vipers for the first time since February 4th 2006. A longtime rivalry going back to the early 90s the Chiefs who are 2-0 to start the season, come into Vernon tonight playing their first game away from home in their first of a two game road trip. The Vipers who sit atop the Interior Conference with a 5-0 record are playing their final game of a three game home stand, before hitting the road for a mini three game road trip. Both these same two teams will meet up again next weekend in Chilliwack.

Last Game Played:

Wednesday, October 5th Vernon defeated Westside 2-0
Saturday, October 1st Chilliwack defeated Salmon Arm 6-4

Next Game:

Saturday, October 8th Vernon @ Merritt
Saturday, October 8th Chilliwack @ Westside

With the move of the Millionaires to Chilliwack, let's take a look at how the Quesnel franchise did over the years vs Vernon.

Since the 2002-03 season Vernon was 41-7-2-1 vs. Quesnel

Since the 2002-03 season Vernon outscored Quesnel 238-107

Since the 2003-04 season Vernon was 17-0-2-1 at home vs. Quesnel

Since the 2003-04 season Vernon was 18-5-0-0 in Quesnel

The Vipers went 9-0-1-0 in their last ten games at home vs. the Millionaires

The Vipers went 10-0-0-0 in their last ten games on the road vs. the Millionaires

Quesnel’s last win at the Wesbild Centre was a 4-3 overtime win back on Saturday, October 18th 2003. Since then the Millionaires lost 26 straight games to the Vipers before picking up a 1-1 tie in Vernon back on Wednesday, October 6th 2010

The Vipers went 5-0-1-0 last season vs Quesnel in the regular season

With a return to Chilliwack, let's see how the Chiefs have done vs Vernon in past years.

From 2003-06 Vernon was 4-0-0-2 vs. Chilliwack

From 2003-06 Vernon had outscored Chilliwack 25-19

From 2003-06 Vernon was 3-0-0-0 at home vs. Chilliwack

From 2003-06 Vernon was 1-0-0-2 in Chilliwack

Between 2003-06 the Vipers were 3-0-0-0 in their last ten games at home vs. the Chiefs

Between 2003-06 the Vipers were 1-0-0-2 in their last ten games on the road vs. the Chiefs

The Vernon Lakers changed their name to the Vernon Vipers to start the 1995-96 season. Here’s a look at the Vipers all-time regular season record

Games Played: 965
Wins: 623
Losses: 245
Ties: 15
Overtime Losses: 84

For more stats & former Vernon Junior Hockey Team rosters & lineups please visit Paul’s Vernon Junior Hockey History website,

http://members.shaw.ca/vernonfranchise/index.html

Lets take a look at the Vernon Vipers:

Games Played: 5
Wins: 5
Losses: 0
Ties: 0
Overtime Losses: 0
Home Record: 3-0-0-0
Road Record: 2-0-0-0
Goals For: 22
Goals Against: 11
Standings: 1st Place

Vernon Vipers Returning Players:

Marcus Basara (93)
Brett Corkey (92)
Aaron Hadley (93)
John Knisley (92)
Patrick McGillis (91)
Max Mowat (93)
Darren Nowick (91)
Ryan Renz (93)
Colton Sparrow (93)
Michael Zalewski (92)
Kirby Halcrow (91)

Vernon Vipers Departing & traded players from last years team:

Dylan Walchuk (92)
David Robinson (90)
Bryce Kakoske (90)
Malcolm Lyles (90)
Trevor Fitzgerald (92)
Adam Thompson (90)
Steven Weinstein (90)
Kyle Murphy (90)
Dane Muench (92)
Philip Patenaude (91)
Zach McPhee (93)
Blake Voth (91)

Vernons Home record vs. Quesnel last season:

2-0-1-0

Vernons Road record vs. Quesnel last season:

3-0-0-0

Vernons Powerplay vs. Quesnel last season:

9-33

Vernons scoring leaders vs. Quesnel last season:

Dylan Walchuk (2-7-9)
John Knisley (2-5-7)
Bryce Kakoske (3-4-7)
David Robinson (4-2-6)
Kyle Murphy (3-2-5)
Darren Nowick (0-5-5)
Steven Weinstein (1-4-5)
Trevor Fitzgerald (2-2-4)
Adam Thompson (1-3-4)
Brett Corkey (0-4-4)
Marcus Basara (2-1-3)
Max Mowat (0-2-2)
Michael Zalewski (2-0-2)
Dane Muench (1-1-2)
Patrick McGillis (1-1-2)
Malcolm Lyles (0-1-1)
Colton Sparrow (0-1-1)
Aaron Hadley (0-1-1)
Zach McPhee (1-0-1)

Blake Voth (4-0-1 Record)
Kirby Halcrow (1-0 Record)

Let's take a look at the trades the Vipers have made so far this season.

27-Jun-11 The Vernon Vipers Hockey Club acquires the CJHL playing rights of Luke Juha (93)(D) from the Burlington Cougars Hockey Club of the OJHL in exchange for future considerations.

02-Aug-11 The Vernon Vipers Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Dane Muench (92)(F), Phillip Patenaude (91)(D) and future considerations to the Kindersley Klippers Hockey Club in exchange for the playing rights of Jarryd Ten Vannholt and Justin Elliot.

19-Sep-11 The Vernon Vipers Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Jarryd Ten Vaanholt (91)(F) to the Victoria Grizzles Hockey Club in exchange for future considerations.

Key’s and Notes to tonight’s game:

-The Vipers will unveil their retro jerseys tonight

-Vernon has the leagues 3rd best powerplay

-The Vipers have the BCHL's 2nd best penalty kill

-Michael Zalewski (5-3-8), Adam Tambellini (4-3-7) & Patrick McGillis (4-3-7) are all in the leagues top twenty in scoring

Lets take a look at the Chilliwack Chiefs:

Games Played: 2
Wins: 2
Losses: 0
Ties: 0
Overtime Losses: 0
Home Record: 2-0-0-0
Road Record: 0-0-0-0
Goals For: 13
Goals Against: 5
Standings: Tied for 3rd Place with Merritt

Chilliwack Chiefs-Quesnel Millionaires Returning Players:

Malcolm Gould (92)
Spencer Graboski (93)
Stefan Gonzales (92)
Chris Blessing (91)
Derek Huisman (92)
David Thompson (92)
Bryton Udy (93)

Chilliwack Chiefs-Quesnel Millionaires Departing & traded players from last years team:

Skyler Smutek (90)
Chris Kerr (92)
Shawn Mueller (92)
Daryl DeVries (92)
Thomas Hardy (91)
Rigby Burgart (90)
Chris Allbee (92)
Anderson White (91)
Bradley Buckingham (92)
Quin Buckellew (92)
Kiefer McNaughton (93)
Chad Roorda (92)
David Ahl (91)
Austin Baecker (92)
Adam Harris (92)

Chilliwack-Quesnel's Home record vs. Vernon last season:

0-3-0-0

Chilliwack-Quesnel's Road record vs. Vernon last season:

0-2-1-0

Chilliwack-Quesnel's Powerplay vs. Vernon last season:

0-20

Chilliwack-Quesnel's scoring leaders vs. Vernon last season:

Malcolm Gould (4-0-4)
Justin Hogan (1-2-3)
Daryl DeVries (1-2-3)
Derek Huisman (2-1-3)
Skyler Smutek (0-3-3)
Spencer Graboski (2-1-3)
Sam Higgins (0-2-2)
Devin Balness (0-2-2)
Chris Blessing (0-1-1)
Chris Kerr (0-1-1)
Michael Spring (0-1-1)
Shawn Mueller (0-1-1)
Taylor Orser (0-1-1)

Adam Harris (0-2 Record)
Bryton Udy (0-1 Record)

Let's take a look at the trades the Chiefs have made this season.

08-Jul-11 The Langley Rivermen Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Josh Hansen (92)(F) to the Chilliwack Chiefs Hockey Club in exchange for future considerations.

02-Aug-11 The Langley Rivermen Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Tyler Miller (91)(D) to the Chilliwack Chiefs Hockey Club in exchange for future considerations.

19-Aug-11 The Chilliwack Chiefs Hockey Club acquires the playing rights of Shay Laurent (93) from the Fort McMurray Oil Barons Hockey Club of the AJHL in exchange for future considerations.

Key’s and Notes to tonight’s game:

-Tonight is the Chiefs first visit to the Wesbild Centre since a 4-1 loss to the Vipers back on Saturday, February 4th 2006

-Chilliwack has the BCHL's 13th best powerplay

-The Chiefs have the league's 13th best penalty kill

-Former Vernon Vipers defenceman, Justin Elliott will face his former team for the first time. Elliott was aquired in a trade with the SJHL Kindersley Klippers in early August but was released before training camp.

-Former Vernon Vipers goaltender, Bryton Udy faces his former team for the first time as a member of the Chilliwack Chiefs.  Udy was traded to Quesnel last season along with Elliott Richardson for goaltender, Kirby Halcrow.

Here are highlights from the Chiefs home opener vs Penticton,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pK7AmER5EjI&feature=related

For a great recap and history on the Chilliwack Chiefs watch these videos,

Part One

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SozX1MzfHIw

Part Two

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eWiPkpdCRas&feature=related

Part Three

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3qhkzE2lng&feature=related

Here’s a look at the season series between these two teams from last season:

Saturday, September 25th @ Quesnel: Vernon wins 5-2

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

Vernon Vipers at 11:46 (PP) - Michael Zalewski from Steven Weinstein and John Knisley
Vernon Vipers at 16:27 - Trevor Fitzgerald from Todd Skirving and Colton Sparrow

PERIOD 2

Vernon Vipers at 7:16 (PP) - Bryce Kakoske from Steven Weinstein and John Knisley

PERIOD 3

Vernon Vipers at 0:41 (PP) - Steven Weinstein from Dylan Walchuk and Kyle Murphy
Quesnel Millionaires at 1:51 - Justin Hogan from Spencer Graboski and Sam Higgins
Vernon Vipers at 12:46 (PP) - Kyle Murphy from Todd Skirving and Brett Corkey
Quesnel Millionaires at 14:26 - Derek Huisman from Daryl DeVries and Sam Higgins

Vernon outshot Quesnel 35-15. Blake Voth made 13 saves for the win, while Kirby Halcrow made 30 saves in the loss.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=840258&link=bchl

Wednesday, October 6th @ Vernon: 1-1 Tie

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

No Scoring

PERIOD 2

Vernon Vipers at 9:43 - John Knisley from Brett Corkey and Darren Nowick

PERIOD 3

Quesnel Millionaires at 17:52 - Devin Balness from Skyler Smutek

Overtime

No Scoring

Vernon outshot Quesnel 48-23. Blake Voth made 22 saves while Kirby Halcrow made 47 saves.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=840146&link=bchl

Saturday, October 23rd @ Vernon: Vernon wins 8-1

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

Vernon Vipers at 12:29 - Dylan Walchuk from Patrick McGillis and Darren Nowick
Vernon Vipers at 15:04 - David Robinson from Bryce Kakoske and Brett Corkey
Vernon Vipers at 19:59 - David Robinson from Darren Nowick and Dylan Walchuk

PERIOD 2

Quesnel Millionaires at 6:10 - Malcolm Gould from Justin Hogan
Vernon Vipers at 12:47 - Bryce Kakoske from Aaron Hadley and John Knisley
Vernon Vipers at 14:45 - Marcus Basara from Max Mowat and Trevor Fitzgerald
Vernon Vipers at 17:09 (SH) - David Robinson from Max Mowat
Vernon Vipers at 18:24 - Trevor Fitzgerald from Malcolm Lyles and Kyle Murphy

PERIOD 3

Vernon Vipers at 5:49 (PP) - Marcus Basara from John Knisley and Adam Thompson

Vernon outshot Quesnel 36-25. Blake Voth made 24 saves for the win, while Adam Harris made 28 saves taking the loss.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=840147&link=bchl

Friday, October 29th @ Quesnel: Vernon wins 4-3

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

Quesnel Millionaires at 4:34 - Malcolm Gould from Devin Balness and Justin Hogan

PERIOD 2

Quesnel Millionaires at 17:24 (PP) - Malcolm Gould from Devin Balness and Skyler Smutek

PERIOD 3

Vernon Vipers at 2:01 (PP) - Dylan Walchuk from Bryce Kakoske and Brett Corkey
Quesnel Millionaires at 7:02 (PP) - Spencer Graboski from Chris Kerr and Chris Blessing
Vernon Vipers at 13:29 (PP) - John Knisley from Adam Thompson and Dylan Walchuk
Vernon Vipers at 14:46 (PP) - Kyle Murphy from Adam Thompson and Bryce Kakoske
Vernon Vipers at 18:44 - Michael Zalewski from Dylan Walchuk and John Knisley

Vernon outshot Quesnel 43-21. Blake Voth made 18 saves in the win, while Kirby Halcrow made 39 saves in the loss.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=840259&link=bchl

Friday, January 14th @ Quesnel: Vernon wins 4-3

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

Quesnel Millionaires at 7:07 - Derek Huisman from Daryl DeVries and Taylor Orser
Vernon Vipers at 15:10 (PP) - Adam Thompson from David Robinson and Steven Weinstein

PERIOD 2

Vernon Vipers at 5:04 - Kyle Murphy from Marcus Basara and David Robinson
Vernon Vipers at 7:10 - Dane Muench from Dylan Walchuk and Darren Nowick
Quesnel Millionaires at 14:54 - Malcolm Gould from Derek Huisman and Michael Spring

PERIOD 3

Vernon Vipers at 3:02 - Zach McPhee from Trevor Fitzgerald
Quesnel Millionaires at 15:14 - Spencer Graboski from Shawn Mueller and Skyler Smutek

Quesnel outshot Vernon 28-27. Blake Voth made 25 saves in the win, while Bryton Udy made 23 saves in the loss.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=840260&link=bchl

Sunday, February 20th @ Vernon: Vipers win 3-0

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

Vernon Vipers at 7:05 - David Robinson from Dylan Walchuk and Bryce Kakoske
Vernon Vipers at 11:35 - Patrick McGillis from Dane Muench and Dylan Walchuk

PERIOD 2

No Scoring

PERIOD 3

Vernon Vipers at 17:29 - Bryce Kakoske from Darren Nowick and Steven Weinstein

Vernon outshot Quesnel 46-19. Kirby Halcrow made 19 saves for the win and shutout, while Adam Harris made 43 saves in the loss.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=840148&link=bchl

Here's a look at both teams rosters:

Vernon:

Michael Zalewski (5-3-8)
Adam Tambellini (4-3-7)
Patrick McGillis (4-3-7)
Darren Nowick (3-3-6)
Marc Hetnik (1-3-4)
Aaron Hadley (1-3-4)
Marcus Basara (0-3-3)
John Knisley (1-1-2)
Colton Sparrow (1-1-2)
Brett Corkey (0-2-2)
Ryan Renz (0-2-2)
Geoff Crisfield (0-1-1)
Jedd Soleway (1-0-1)
Max Mowat (0-1-1)
Connor Hartley (0-1-1)
Alex Hagen (0-0-0)
Turner Lawson (0-0-0)
Riley Hunt (0-0-0)
Luke Juha (0-0-0)

Kirby Halcrow (3-0 Record, 2.28 GAA)
Danny Todosychuk (2-0 Record, 1 Shutout, 1.98 GAA)

Chilliwack:

Malcolm Gould (2-2-4)
Kit Sitterley (2-2-4)
Spencer Graboski (1-3-4)
David Bondra (0-4-4)
Garrett Forster (1-2-3)
Josh Hansen (2-0-2)
Trevor Hills (2-0-2)
Mike Berry (1-1-2)
Jeremy Gossard (1-1-2)
Stefan Gonzales (0-2-2)
Tyler Miller (0-2-2)
Shay Laurent (1-0-1)
Jaret Babych (0-1-1)
Chris Blessing (0-1-1)
Derek Huisman (0-1-1)
Michael Spring (0-0-0)
David Thompson (0-0-0)
Justin Elliott (0-0-0)
Alexandre Perron - Fontaine (0-0-0)

Mitch Gillam (1-0 Record, 1.00 GAA)
Bryton Udy (1-0 Record, 4.00 GAA)

Danny Todosychuk Post-Game Interview:

Vernon Vipers colour commentator, Don Klepp interviews Vernon Vipers goaltender, Danny Todosychuk who collected his first career BCHL shutout making 25 saves in a 2-0 win over the visiting Westside Warriors Wednesday night. Todosychuk was named first star.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f6UpMlocoCg&feature=player_embedded#!

Renewing Historic BCHL Rivalry:

Renewing historic BCHL rivalry

Chilliwack Chiefs: Newsletter

Thursday, October 6, 2011 - Submitted by Jacob Bestebroer

What was once one of the best rivalries in junior hockey will be rekindled Friday night in Vernon.

While it may have never reached the heights of rivalries like Boston Red Sox? versus New York Yankees?, Montreal Canadiens? versus Toronto Maple Leafs?, Ginger versus Maryanne or Rosie O’Donnell vs Donald Trump, the Chilliwack Chiefs versus the Vernon Lakers/Vipers was once one of the best rivalries in junior hockey.

It goes back to 1990 when the Richmond Sockeyes moved to Chilliwack to become the Chiefs.

Chiefs spent their first four seasons in the Interior Division with Vernon who were then known as the Lakers. During those four years the two teams faced off against each other 40 times during the regular season with the Chiefs winning 16 of those 40 games.

They also met twice in the playoffs, in 1991 and 1992, with the Lakers winning both of those second round series in six games.

Keep in mind back then the games in both cities were played in small arenas where the fans were right on top of the players. If you were there, you know how special it was.

The Chiefs then moved out of the Interior conference and the teams met just two or three times during the regular season from that point on. Despite that the rivalry hit new heights when the teams met in the BCHL finals four times in a five year span beginning in 1999. The teams split those series, with the Chiefs winning in 2000 and 2002 and the Vipers being crowned champions in 1999 and 2003.

It may take a bit for this rivalry to heat up again but I have no doubt that it will.

It’s likely the fan bases of both teams will fuel the fire.

There are many fans in both cities who remember the early 90’s when the Chiefs with Joey Potskin and Marc Gagnon, and the Lakers with Scott Longstaff and Dusty McClellan would entertain us with games that ended with scores like 9-8 and 10-7.

Fans a little younger will remember the four final series and watching players like Jeremy Jackson, Jeff Tambellini? and Gabe Gauthier? leading the Chiefs to two final series wins over the Vipers.

During the last five seasons, while the Chiefs were absent from Chilliwack, the Vipers were the class of the BCHL. They’ve won the last three league championships and claimed national championships in 2009 and 2010.

The Vipers are also the Chiefs next home opponent on Oct. 14. Both teams have great fan support and many of these fans will remember the days when a Chilliwack versus Vernon game was a must see event.

I think it still is.

RBC Cup Bid Team Named:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

RBC Cup bid team named

Published: October 07, 2011

First came the bid for the Vernon Vipers and the City of Vernon to host the Royal Bank Cup national Junior A hockey championship tournament.

Now comes the people in place to lead that bid.

Chris Collard and Mike Lane have been named the co-chairpersons of Vernon’s bid to host the 2014 Canadian championship tournament at the Wesbild Centre.

Collard, 47, is a certified financial advisor who has lived in Vernon since 1994.

An avid hockey fan, Collard is on the executive of the Greater Vernon Minor Hockey Association, and is also the association’s Junior Divisions co-ordinator (for ages 5-10.) His two sons play within those divisions.

“I became involved in the bid process essentially because of our boys,” said Collard. “They love going to the Viper games and they would be thrilled to have the RBC come to Vernon, just like a whole lot of other people.”

Lane, 36, has lived in Vernon all of his life, and is the controller for Kelowna’s Flair Airlines.

“I understand the value of clear goals and expectations expressed by an organization’s leadership,” said Lane. “That’s our main challenge at the moment – we need to set out a clear path to create a strong proposal, which will then be the basis for a successful RBC tournament.”

Don Klepp, the Vipers’ education consultant and broadcast colour commentator, who first announced Vernon’s bid in June, is delighted that Collard and Lane have volunteered to chair the Vernon host committee.

“They’re keen hockey fans and they’re really energetic, but most of all they’re passionate about bringing this prestigious event to Vernon,” said Klepp.

Hockey fans who want the Royal Bank Cup to come to Vernon in 2014 can help by donating to the bid fund.

Starting tonight at the Wesbild Centre, a donation table will be set up at Viper home games. The donations will help the Vernon bid committee prepare and present its bid proposal.

“Much of the early part of the process will simply require our time and some personal resources, such as our own computers and printers, but a professional proposal will require some expenditure and we will need to travel to present our proposal to Hockey Canada,” said Lane.

“Also, Hockey Canada requires that our proposal be accompanied by a bid fee of $2,500 and a $5,000 surety.”

“We are confident that we will gain business, corporate, and government financial support for the RBC, but those efforts will take time,” added Collar. “In the meantime, local hockey fans can help us move forward.”

All donation amounts will be gratefully accepted and receipts will be issued.

Any donation of $10 or more will be eligible to be counted as a down payment toward a tournament ticket package.

A $20 donation will place the donor’s name in a draw for an all-access VIP tournament package.

Multiples of $20 will gain additional chances to win the VIP package and one of two 2012-13 Viper season ticket packages. So, for example, a $60 donation would garner three chances to win one of the three draw prizes.

If Vernon’s bid is unsuccessful, the collected monies will be donated to local charities.

The Vipers are four-time Royal Bank Cup champions and have appeared in the gold-medal match in the last three national championships, winning twice.

The city hosted the 1990 Centennial Cup Canadian Junior A hockey championship, which the then-Vernon Lakers won on home ice, the first of two straight Centennial Cup appearances.

Vernon hockey teams have appeared in nine national tournaments since 1989.

Danny Delivers In Backup Plan:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Danny delivers in backup plan

By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star

Published: October 07, 2011

Danny Todosychuk’s job description requires he be ready to go at a moment’s notice. That’s the nature of a backup goaltender.

With Vernon Vipers’ starter Kirby Halcrow suffering flu-like symptoms, Todosychuk learned just before warmup that he would start Wednesday night’s B.C. Hockey League tilt against the Westside Warriors.

The 16-year-old Vernon native responded with a 25-save, first star performance and his first-ever BCHL shutout as the Vipers iced the Warriors 2-0 before 1,334 fans at Wesbild Centre.

“I can’t take all the credit; the boys stepped up and the d-men played really well,” said Todosychuk. “There were a few turnovers here and there, but that’s the way it goes. There are no perfect games out there.”

Added Vernon head coach Jason Williamson: “That’s a backup; they’ve got to be ready from the get-go and when he had to be good, he was great.

“Playoff-style game, and that’s the way it’s going to be with four teams making the playoffs. Down the road, we don’t want these two points to haunt us.”

Todosychuk and Warriors’ netminder Steve Racine had to be sharp as both teams dutifully stuck to their systems in a tight-checking game, making the few scoring chances that did occur all the more crucial.

Todosychuk recorded the save of the night when he lunged cross-crease to deny Garrett Skrbich on a 2-on-1 midway through the second period. Shortly after, he stopped Brett McKinnon on his doorstep and then got a little help from Vernon d-man Geoff Crisfield to clear the loose puck.

“You just follow the puck as best you can. You don’t want to guess too much, but obviously there’s always a little bit of anticipation,” said Todosychuk, who was probably the happiest guy in the rink when Vernon’s Darren Nowick opened the scoring on a 5-on-3 earlier in the second period.

“That was definitely a big load off my shoulders. That was a good look by Renzy (defenceman Ryan Renz) and he just put it down low and Nowick got a good stick on it. We had most of the pressure anyway, so it was about time we finally put one in there,” smiled Todosychuk.

Viper captain Patrick McGillis relieved the pressure with an empty-netter with 24 seconds to play.

The Vipers, tied with the Powell River Kings for first overall at 5-0, entertain the relaunched Chilliwack Chiefs (2-0) tonight at Wesbild. They visit the Merritt Centennials Saturday at Nicola Valley Arena.

The 4-2 Warriors are tied for second in the Interior Conference with the 4-1 Penticton Vees. Both of Westside’s losses have come against Vernon.

“You don’t like to see a game decided that way, but full marks to them. I thought they played better than us and we didn’t score a goal,” said Westside head coach Rylan Ferster.

“I don’t want to say we let one slip away tonight because it’s Vernon, but we came in here and gave just a good enough effort. We didn’t have that little extra that you’re going to need to beat Vernon.”

Michael King, a towering Warriors’ blueliner who logged nearly as many minutes as the goalies, was perhaps Westside’s steadiest player Wednesday night. Now in his second year, he relishes lining up against top BCHL teams.

“It’s just the name behind it – Vernon Vipers. You always want to play against that name and get a win against them. The crowd was quiet but it’s not hard to get up for these games,” said King, who is headed to Colorado College next season.

“Sometimes we weren’t sticking to our systems. We were letting them tear us down bit by bit and I think it got to us.”

In a game that was lacking emotion, Crisfield jolted the crowd with a spirited third-period scrap against the Warriors’ Shawn Hauchhausen. The two combatants began trading blows, but Crisfield snapped Hochhausen’s head back with two or three stiff shots, wobbling his opponent to earn the decision.

The altercation was likely a carry over from the Vipers’ Friday-night tilt in Westside, where Crisfield got mixed up with McKinnon in the dying seconds.

Crisfield inks with Fighting Sioux

Crisfield, who attended the recent Team Canada West evaluation camp for the upcoming World Junior A Challenge, committed to the NCAA Division 1 North Dakota Fighting Sioux Wednesday.

The 18-year-old went on a fly-down to the Grand Forks campus last spring, but only started talking with the coaches in the last week.

“They kept slight tabs on me over the summer and then sent a couple guys out to watch me this fall and they liked what they saw,” said Crisfield.

“There were a few others (schools), but nothing really serious. It’s still pretty early in the season so it’s not something I was expecting so quick. It’s nice to have it out of the way and get on with the season. It’s a bit of a shock, but it’s a good feeling.”

SNAKE BITES: The Vipers will unveil their new retro jerseys tonight against the Chiefs. The new design pays homage to the Vernon Lakers...Former Viper defenceman Adam Thompson left the Yale Bulldogs for personal reasons.

Crisfield Commits To North Dakota:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Crisfield commits to North Dakota

by Viper staff | Added 2011-10-06

For Immediate Release:

Crisfield Commits to North Dakota

The Vernon Vipers Hockey Club is pleased to announce that Geoff Crisfield has committed to attend the University of North Dakota after his playing career in Vernon.

The 18 year old from Calgary is in his first season with the Vipers. He has had a great start to his junior career and has helped the club to a perfect 5-0 record. Geoff also attended the World Junior A Challenge prospect camp in Canmore.

The North Dakota Fighting Sioux are one of the most prestigious schools and hockey programs in all of college hockey. Chay Genoway, a former Viper, captained last year’s team and recently signed with the Minnesota Wild.

The Vernon Vipers would like to congratulate Geoff on his recent achievement and wish him the best of luck in the future.

Former Viper Volpatti's Amazing Journey From Third-Degree Burns To Fourth-Line Spot With Canucks:

Here is an article that was in Tuesdays Vancouver Province newspaper. Volpatti played three years in Vernon (2003-2006).

Volpatti’s amazing journey from third-degree burns to fourth-line spot with Canucks

October 4, 2011

Burn marks remain visible amid skin grafts on his right hand, arm and legs. And the mangled skin on his abdomen is a constant reminder of how Aaron Volpatti’s hockey career was put in serious jeopardy.

It’s not the kind of story the Vancouver Canucks fourth-line winger is eager to tell because the chapters include bravado, stupidity, adversity and the resolve to turn the recklessness of youth into the maturity of a purposeful and well-educated NHL player. However, in the summer of 2005 it was more about a wide-eyed kid and his buddies playing with fire during a Vernon Vipers postseason camping trip. Volpatti not only received burns to 35 per cent of his body in the process, the Revelstoke native spent five weeks in hospital and was told that his playing days may have come to an end.

“It was a real eye-opener,” Volpatti recalled Tuesday. “Teenage kids sometimes think they’re invincible and I learned the hard way. I was 19 and we had lost out in the [BCHL] final against Surrey and we went camping as a team and one thing led to another. We were being a little bit stupid and I spilled a little bit of gas on myself and the next thing you know, I got badly burned.

“It’s pretty emotional when you’re told there might not be a chance of playing and I was lucky because somebody was watching over me. I didn’t get any scarring over my joints and my face was burned, but it’s fine.”

Those who know Volpatti will tell you there’s something special about the guy who’s in the final year of a two-year, free-agent contract. The 15 NHL games Volpatti played last season only strengthened his resolve to become a mainstay and not an afterthought when all the preseason hype was about newcomers Steve Pinizzotto, Mike Duco and Mark Mancari plus departed veteran Victor Oreskovich vying to be Maxim Lapierre’s wingers.

Far from brash and boisterous like many fourth-liners, Volpatti punched his ticket to roster prominence with a memorable preseason effort in San Jose on Thursday. It included four hits, four blocked shots and a quick one-sided decision in a bout with Brad Winchester. That wouldn’t have been possible if Volpatti gave up six years ago. Many would have. He didn’t.

“At that point, they said you’re definitely a couple of years away from playing again and if you play again, I may not be able to use my right hand again,” recalled Volpatti. “It was pretty cool to come back that fall. I only played 25 of 60 games just because it was a little too much at times. The burns on my legs were bad enough that I had some muscles issues.”

That’s a Cole’s Notes version of what really occurred. Because of his humble nature, Volpatti doesn’t dwell on the long road he’s travelled from Junior A, to captain at Brown University and lining up with Dale Weise and Lapierre when the Canucks start playing for keeps on Thursday against Pittsburgh at Rogers Arena. The longer version of the tale is one of pain and perseverance because there was nothing ordinary about his long climb back up the career ladder. There were skin grafts and soreness and wearing a pressure suit 24 hours a day to control scarring. And as much as Volpatti has improved his skating, there was a time when he wasn’t even mobile after leaving hospital.

“I couldn’t walk for another month,” added Volpatti. “It was a process and I didn’t get much training in. It’s funny how it worked out. I was in the hospital when I heard from Brown to get my scholarship and I committed to them that November because my goal at the end of that season was to get a scholarship.”

Volpatti majored in human biology at Brown and isn’t sure how he’ll apply that degree in the future, but his offseason focus was power skating to improve a decent stride. In searching for a fourth-line identity, coach Alain Vigneault wants equal parts of ability and aggression.

“I felt like I had a good camp and not only physically — which was pretty obvious in a few situations — but I was comfortable with the puck and I thought I made good decisions,” said Volpatti. “And my skating has improved. I feel a lot quicker and faster.”

Vigneault believes Volpatti’s willingness to bring a physical dimension while working on his game is what has brought the rugged winger to this point. After all, Volpatti didn’t really get noticed until his senior year at Brown and playing pro in some league at some point was always a goal.

“Like any other player, you’ve got to be able to play,” said Vigneault. “Those two or three-minute players, we don’t want them and I don’t think the NHL wants them any more. You’ve got to be able to play in different situations and Aaron is very mature. I see progression and a lot of excitement there for our team.”

Former Vipers Defenceman Elliott Lands In Chilliwack:

Former Vernon Vipers defenceman, Justin Elliott has landed a job with the Chilliwack Chiefs. Elliott who played last year with Coquitlam & Salmon Arm was traded in the off season to the SJHL Kindersley Klippers before being traded for a second time to the Vernon Vipers on August 2nd 2011. Elliott along with Jarryd Ten Vannholt were traded to the Vipers for, Phillip Patenaude, Dane Muench and future considerations. Rumor at the Vipers training camp in early September was Elliot was released. No official word on how Elliott landed in Chilliwack but is on the Chiefs roster.

Todosychuk Blanks Westside:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Todosychuk blanks Westside

by Don Klepp | Added 2011-10-05

Vernon’s Danny Todosychuk and Westside’s Steve Racine shone in the net for their teams in Vernon on Wednesday, with Todosychuk gaining the upper hand in a 2-0 victory.

Todosychuk was not scheduled to start for the Vipers, but was pressed into action when Kirby Halcrow became ill before the game. The 17-year-old, who has wanted to play for the Vipers "for as long as [he] can remember," stopped all 25 Westside shots for his first BCHL shutout.

After the game, he pointed to his save on Garrett Skrbich as his best of the night. After Marc Hetnik was caught pinching at the red line, the Warriors had a clear cut two-on-one, but Todosychuk slid to his right to block a high shot from the wide open Skrbich and then he covered the rebound.

The odd man rush was uncharacteristic in a game where there were very few defensive breakdowns. Both teams backchecked like fiends and restricted scoring chances from rebounds or open shooters.

The Warriors were particularly committed to smothering Viper rushes before they could really get started. Their forecheck and their neutral zone trap cut off the Viper trademark diagonal passes, for the most part.

The Vipers also played their best defensive game of the early season, as they coughed up very few pucks in their zone and were relentless on the back check. Coach Chris Shaw said that “Jason [Coach Williamson] and I were pleased with their effort and their persistent coverage. We’re now starting to play Viper hockey.”

When the players were able to create scoring chances – the Vipers had 11 and the Warriors 9 – the goalies were very solid. Chris Shaw said, “I thought that Danny made four great saves, and Racine was sharp, too, especially when he robbed Johnny Knisley in the first period.”

The winning goal came during a Viper 5-on-3 power play. The Vipers moved the puck confidently, inching closer in a five-man unit to the Westside goal as the Warriors collapsed toward their net. While Mike Zalewski occupied two defenders at the left side of the crease, Ryan Renz took his time to direct a slap pass to Darren Nowick, who deflected the puck to the top corner at 7:09 of the second period.

Patrick McGillis salted the game away when he picked Brayden Sherbinin’s pocket at the Westside blue line and shot into Racine’s vacated net with 24 seconds remaining in the game.

Game Notes:

• Westside’s captain, Izaak Berglund, missed the game with concussion-like symptoms resulting from an accidental collision with Vernon’s Jedd Soleway in Last Friday’s game. Reid Simmonds, who was also hurt in that game, sat out with a knee problem. Defenceman Dustin Cave returned to the Warrior lineup, and AP Phillip Cameron dressed in place of Simmonds.

• Injured Vipers Max Mowat and Alex Hagen once again did not dress. Hagen’s spot was capably filled by New Jersey native Zach Lindsay, who plays for the Osoyoos Coyotes. Lindsay, who has some AJHL experience and who played part of last year for the North Okanagan Knights, handled the puck well and used his 6’3”, 210-pound frame to advantage. Lindsay admitted that he “was a little nervous on the first shift, but then it was just hockey, really good hockey. I hope I get a few more games with this team.”

Vernon 2 Westside 0

I was at tonights BCHL game as Vernon defeated Westside 2-0 in front of 1,334 fans at the Wesbild Centre.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon: Danny Todosychuk
Westside: Steven Racine

1st Period: Luke Juha with a long pass up ice tried hitting Vipers captain, Patrick McGillis for the breakaway just thirty five seconds into the contest but McGillis couldnt keep up to the puck. Both teams got off to a good start as the play went back and forth early in the opening few minutes. The Vernon Vipers would get a little pressure deep in the Warriors zone and create some good chances just three minutes into the hockey game. Moving the puck well, the Vipers were buzzing in and around the Westside goal. The Vipers tried setting up John Knisley in the slot, Steven Racine made the pad save, on a shot that Knisley fanned on. The Warriors would get the games first powerplay, moving the puck around well Westside controlled most of the man advantage but Vernon's defence did a good job at keeping the Warriors to the outside limiting their scoring chances as Vernon killed off the minor. Just after the powerplay Mx French and Seb Lloyd on a two on one in close, French was stopped by Vernon product, Danny Todosychuk who made the first save and then come up with an even better save robbing Lloyd in the crease. A very even played period with the play going back and forth. Darren Nowick with a great chance from the slot was stopped by Racine who made a quick pad save. The Warriors tried sending veteran forward, Dru Morrison in for the breakaway but Morrison was called offside at the Vipers blueline on a close call. The play really slowed down in the final minute as both teams couldnt seem to get much of anything going with several stopages in play. A fairly even played period with some good play at both ends of the rink, the Vipers with the better scoring chances headed into the 2nd period 0-0. Westside outshot Vernon 10-9.

2nd Period: Just over two minutes into the middle frame Marcus Basara with a nice drop pass setup Vernon product, Jedd Soleway who ripped a hard low shot that was stopped by Steven Racine who made a nice save with traffic driving towards the goal. Racine was then forced to make a tough toe save on the next shift after stopping Mike Zalewski from the top of the circle. Vernon got off to a good start buzzing in the Warriors zone. Luke Juha's point shot beat Racine but went off the post as the Vipers come very close to opening the scoring. Westside would get an early powerplay and come up with just a single shot on the man advantage as the Vipers killed off their second penalty of the night. On the next play the Vipers would get a long two man advantage after the Warriors got into some penalty trouble. Just fifteen seconds into the powerplay, Mike Zalewski's shot was tipped in front by Darren Nowick who beat Steven Racine upstairs giving Vernon the 1-0 lead at 7:09, Zalewski and Ryan Renz collected the helpers. With Vernon still on the man advantage the Vipers couldnt seem to get much going, as the Warriors penalty kill was very good keeping the Vipers to the outside and killing off the penalty. The Vipers who looked very good in the 2nd period were outplaying the Warriors who had recorded just two shots on goal in the first half of the period. Jedd Soleway with his second scoring opportunity of the night was stopped in close by Steven Racine who played very well this evening keeping Westside in the hockey game. Danny Todosychuk then made his biggest save of the night, robbing the Warriors on a two on one, sliding across the crease to make the huge save keeping this a one goal game. Westside would get their third man advantage of the night after the Vipers were caught with too many men on the ice. The Warriors again were unable to capitalize after Vernon killed off the minor. Westside come close to tying the game on a funny bounce, the Warriors with a routine looking dump in caught Danny Todosychuk off gaurd when the puck took a weird bounce in the crease and then dissapeared. Todosychuk fell to the ground and waited for the whistle as the puck somehow stayed out of the goal. Late in the period, the Vipers would get a powerplay but Vernon with some carless turnovers looked sloppy with the man advantage. Just as the penalty expired Westside just about caught the Vipers defence napping, as Max French jumped out of the box with the parcial breakaway but Vernon's defence got back in time to breakup the breakaway. Vernon got real sloppy in the final minute as the Warriors couldnt capitalize on some Viper turnovers. Vernon dominated this period outplaying Westside for most of the 2nd. The Vipers were really buzzing and creating chances while Westside couldnt generate any offence, playing most of the middle frame in their own end. The Vipers were up 1-0 after 40 minutes of play. Vernon outshot Westside 13-6.

3rd Period: Off the opening faceoff the Warriors with an odd man rush setup veteran, Tyler Krause in front who was stopped by Todosychuk but ran over the Vipers rookie goaltender in the process. Todosychuk was slow getting up but stayed in the game. Westside come out hungry, having lots of jump pouncing on the Vipers often and early. The Warriors were winning all the puck battles and beating Vernon to the puck, buzzing in and around the Vipers goal early. The Vipers would get an early powerplay, Darren Nowick with two great chances from the slot decided to pass instead of shooting as the Warriors penalty kill would kill off the minor. Max French and Tyler Krause were both very dangerous in the final frame creating some chances in and around the Vipers net. Give credit to the Vernon defence who kept the Warriors to the outside, limiting Westside's scoring opportunities. Brett McKinnon was stopped by Danny Todosychuk who played well between the pipes for the Vipers. Westside who looked very good had the Vipers back on there heels. The Warriors slowly tried getting under the skin of Vernon exchanging words, giving little jabs after the whistle, anything to try and sucker the Vipers into taking a penalty. Marcus Basara was lucky he didnt give the Warriors a powerplay after giving a shot to a Westside player just outside the Vernon blueline. Just before the midway mark Geoff Crisfield dropped the gloves with Shawn Hochhausen. Hochhausen left the game to get some repairs. Westside with another shot on the powerplay moved the puck well, but couldnt get any real chances in close as Vernon killed off the minor. "AP" Zachery Lindsay turned the puck over just outside the Vernon blueline, but Danny Todosychuk made a nice glove save. Max French one on one beat the Viper d-man before getting in too close and not being able to get off a good shot was stopped by Todosychuk. French later on with a great chance went for the wrap around setup Tyler Krause in front who was stopped by Todosychuk. The Vipers who had all kinds of trouble getting the offence going were losing most of the battles in the 3rd. The Vipers with some blind passes were turning over the puck way too many times in the final period. Westside who dominated the entire 3rd didnt get any bounces as they had their chances. The Warriors would get Steven Racine to the bench for the extra attacker, as the Warriors got the play in deep, one of the Westside defenceman jumped up into the slot as the puck come around the boards clearing the zone before Patrick McGillis scooped up the loose puck, with some hard work along the boards McGillis kept and hit the empty cage at 19:36 giving Vernon a 2-0 lead. McGillis's goal was unassisted. This put any kind of a comeback from Westside out of reach as the Vipers improved to 5-0 while the Warriors dropped to 4-2. Westside outshot Vernon 9-8.

Top Players: (Vernon)

Brett Corkey who has been the Vipers best d-man so far this young season played very strong on the backend tonight. Corkey played very well at both ends of the rink.

Marc Hetnik I thought also played very well defensively for Vernon tonight. Didnt show alot of offensive skill but was very steady defensively.

Mike Zalewski (1 assist) Was a horse up front for the Vipers. Zalewski worked hard all night, really carried the play alot for the Vipers. Didnt have alot of real good opportunities but was buzzing with the puck inside the Warriors zone.

Jedd Soleway I thought played fairly well tonight. Had two or three good scoring chances, battled and competed hard most of the night.

Zachery Lindsay "AP" Made his Vipers debut tonight as Max Mowat and Alex Hagen are still out of the lineup with injuries. A bigger kid I thought held his own for most of the game tonight. Played fairly well looking like a regular Jr A player for the most parts, has a hard shot, and looked good up front on the Vipers 4th line.

Danny Todosychuk (25 Saves-1st career BCHL Shutout) Didnt have alot of action tonight, but made the saves when needed too. I was a little surprised to see Danny get the start tonight vs a strong Westside club. Made a huge save off the Warriors on a two on one rush in the second period keeping the score 1-0.

Game Thoughts: (Vernon)

Tonight was a much better effort and performance from the Vipers after a very poor-dissapointing effort and performance vs Prince George over the weekend. The Vipers played very well in the first two periods ended up back on there heels in the 3rd and were lucky to hang on for the victory. Give Vernon credit there penalty kill was very good, and they did a great job at keeping the Warriors to the outside, limiting their chances and allowing Danny Todosychuk to see the puck. A nail biter of a 3rd period, as the Vipers were outplayed and outworked for most of the final period.  Vernon's defence played very well.  The Vipers did give away the puck alot tonight, turning over the puck with some blind passes in the offensive zone. Instead of making a blind pass, dump the puck into the corner or carry the play and eat some time off the clock by going into the corner. At times it looked like the Vipers were getting a little too fancy with the puck, wich resulted in several turnovers. Including the pre-season the Vipers are now 4-0 against Westside this season. Vernon now 5-0 will host Chilliwack Friday.

Top Players: (Westside)

Ben Betker looked very solid on the Westside blueline. Was very steady all night.

Brett McKinnon looked very strong up front for the Warriors, had several scoring opportunities. A smooth skater who is good with and without the puck.

Peter MacIntosh also played and looked very solid for the Warriors on the backend.

Max French and Tyler Krause were the Warriors best forwards tonight. These two were very dangerous with and without the puck. French was a workhorse, seeing all kinds off ice through out tonights game. French who had several good scoring chances was buzzing all night, Krause who also played hard had several chances. These two work and play very well together. Dont know how these two were held off the scoresheet.

Steven Racine (28 Saves) Played very well between the pipes giving Westside a chance to win. Was the busier of the two netminders making some very good saves. Looked more confident and played much better then in the Warriors home opener (5-2 Vipers win).

Game Thoughts: (Westside)

Just like the Vipers, Westside played two real good periods but didnt get any bounces. A bounce here or there and this game would have been tied. The Warriors looked very good and played very well in the opening period but just didnt get a whole lot of scoring opportunities. This was a different team come the 2nd period, as they were outplayed and outworked by a much stronger Vernon Vipers hockey club. Give Westside credit they turned their game around come the 3rd and with a little more puck luck they may have been able to sneak out a victory on the road. The Warriors who really stepped up their play in the 3rd, forced the Vipers into several turnovers. The Warriors had trouble most of the night, getting guys to the front of the net as the Vipers defence held Westside to the outside for most of the game. Tonight was the Warriors first loss away from home, & now head home for a six game home stand.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Max Mowat (Injured)
Alex Hagen (Injured)

Westside:

Izaak Berglund (Injured)

3 Stars:

1st Star: Danny Todosychuk (25 Saves-1st Career BCHL Shutout)
2nd Star: Darren Nowick (1 goal)
3rd Star: Steven Racine (28 Saves)

Vipers Energy Player of the game: Geoff Crisfield

For more on tonight's game check out the boxscore,

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977810&link=bchl