This is posted on the Vipers website:
Vipers' road woes continue
by Don Klepp | Added 2012-01-14
A 3-0 win by the Merritt Centennials in Merritt extended the Vernon Viper losing streak to four games and their road winless streak to 10 games.
Lino Chimienti registered his third shutout of the season as he put in a solid effort between the pipes. However, it was the dogged defensive effort by his teammates that decided this game.
Still, the Vipers played as hard and as well as the Centennials, except for the opening four minutes of the contest and a stretch in the third period when the Vipers’ frustration boiled over.
Merritt had scored just once in 18 power plays against the Vipers in the season series, but capitalized twice in four tries in this game. Meanwhile, they held the Vipers scoreless on five Viper power plays.
Newly-acquired Carter Shinkaruk notched the only goal the Cents would need at 13:41 of the second period, with Vernon’s Turner Lawson serving a charging penalty for challenging Brandon Bruce after Bruce had blindsided Max Mowat.
Billy Marshall’s point shot through a maze of players was stopped by Kirby Halcrow, but Shinkaruk muscled in the second rebound.
Evan Stack’s two third-period goals salted the game away for Merritt. He intercepted a pass at the Viper blue line and broke in on Halcrow. His initial shot was stopped by Halcrow but Stack beat the Viper defender to the rebound at 8:51.
Stack’s second goal was another power play marker that resulted from a furious scramble in front of the Viper net.
Hit hard by the injury bug all season, the Vipers lost leading goal scorer Darren Nowick early in the first period. Later in the period, Sean Robertson went down with a leg injury while blocking a slap shot. He eventually returned to play a few shifts in the third period.
Already missing injured forwards John Knisley and Ben Gamache, and without Adam Tambellini, who was away on a College visit, the Vipers were forced to juggle their lines all evening. Their best trio included Jedd Soleway between Brendan Persley and Turner Lawson.
Newcomer Colton Cyr also turned in a spirited effort for the Vipers.
Big Jacob Reichert was a physical presence for the Centennials as he used his 230-pound frame to separate opposing players from the puck. Overall, though, the Vipers outhit the Cents, 35-27 in a playoff-style game.
If the Centennials’ play in this game was any indication, they will be tough in the playoffs. Meanwhile, the Vipers are struggling to get into a playoff position as their squad continues to be plagued by injuries.
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Friday, January 13, 2012
Merritt 3 Vernon 0
PERIOD 1
No Scoring
PERIOD 2
Merritt Centennials at 13:41 (PP) - Carter Shinkaruk from Billy Marshall and Brandon Bruce
PERIOD 3
Merritt Centennials at 8:51 - Evan Stack (unassisted)
Merritt Centennials at 15:03 (PP) - Evan Stack from Regan Soquila and Chad Brears
Merritt outshot Vernon 33-22, Lino Chimienti made 22 saves for the shutout, while Kirby Halcrow made 30 saves in the loss.
For more on tonight's game visit the boxscore,
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977764&link=bchl
(Game Preview) Vernon @ Merritt:
Tonight is the fifth of eight regular season meetings between these two teams.
Let's take a look at the regular season schedule between these two hockey clubs,
Saturday, October 8th Vernon @ Merritt (Vipers won 3-2 in double overtime)
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977748
Friday, December 2nd Merritt @ Vernon 4-4 Tie)
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977547
Saturday, December 3rd Vernon @ Merritt
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977760&link=bchl
Saturday, January 7th Merritt @ Vernon
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977553&link=bchl
Friday, January 13th Vernon @ Merritt
Friday, February 3rd Merritt @ Vernon
Friday, February 10th Merritt @ Vernon
Tuesday, February 14th Vernon @ Merritt
Last Game Played:
Saturday, Januray 10th Merritt defeated Vernon 3-1
Next Game:
Saturday, January 14th Coquitlam @ Vernon
Saturday, January 14th Chilliwack @ Merritt
Since the 2002-03 season Vernon is 47-8-1-6 vs. Merritt
Since the 2002-03 season Vernon has outscored Merritt 271-144
Since the 2003-04 season Vernon is 20-3-1-3 at home vs. Merritt
Since the 2003-04 season Vernon is 21-2-0-4 in Merritt
The Vipers are 6-1-1-2 in their last ten games at home vs. the Centennials
The Vipers are 8-1-0-1 in their last ten games on the road vs. the Centennials
The Vipers are 5-2-1-2 in their last ten games vs. Merritt
The Vipers are 20-2-1-2 in their last 25 games vs Merritt
The Vipers last loss in Merritt was a 2-0 loss back on Saturday, December 3rd 2011
The Centennials last win in Vernon was a 3-1 victory back on Saturday, January 7th 2012
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: 988
Wins: 629
Losses: 259
Ties: 16
Overtime Losses: 86
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
The Vipers hit the road in Merritt tonight for the second game of a home and home series with the Centennials. The Cents defeated the Vipers 3-1 in Vernon Saturday night who have now lost three straight. The Vipers who play four of their next six games on home ice have lots nine straight on the road. Vernon sits in 5th place six points back of 3rd place Prince George and three points back of 4th place Chilliwack should have Colton Cyr make his Vipers debut tonight.
Lets take a look at the Vernon Vipers:
Games Played: 36
Wins: 17
Losses: 16
Ties: 1
Overtime Losses: 2
Home Record: 11-5-1-1
Road Record: 6-11-0-1
Goals For: 124
Goals Against: 118
Streak: Three game losing streak
Standings: 5th Place
Vernon Vipers Returning Players:
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:
Marcus Basara (93)
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 this season:
0-1-1-0
Vernon's Road record vs. Merritt this season:
1-1-0-0
Vernon’s Powerplay vs. Merritt this season:
2-13
Vernon’s scoring leaders vs. Merritt this season:
Darren Nowick (4-2-6)
Michael Zalewski (1-4-5)
John Knisley (0-1-1)
Luke Juha (0-1-1)
Jedd Soleway (0-1-1)
Brett Corkey (0-1-1)
Max Mowat (0-1-1)
Adam Tambellini (1-0-1)
Aaron Hadley (0-1-1)
Ryan Renz (0-1-1)
Patrick McGillis (0-1-1)
Colton Sparrow (1-0-1)
Kirby Halcrow (1-2-1-0 Record)
Key’s and Notes to tonight’s game:
-Vernon has the leagues 3rd best powerplay
-The Vipers have the BCHL's 10th best penalty kill
-Danny Todosychuk (4-1 Record, 2.68 GAA) is in the top ten goaltenders
-Mike Zalewski (19-26-45) is the lone Viper in the leagues top twenty in scoring
For more on tonight's game and the Merritt Centennials, please visit Alex Grebenyuk's Cents Central blog,
http://centscentral.blogspot.com/
The Centennials return home after a three game road trip winning all three are home for four straight. Merritt sits in 2nd place six points up on 3rd place PG have lost three straight on home ice. 20 yr old forward, Carter Shinkaruk should make his Cents debut tonight after coming over in a deal with the Powell River Kings.
Lets take a look at the Merritt Centennials:
Games Played: 38
Wins: 21
Losses: 10
Ties: 2
Overtime Losses: 5
Home Record: 10-4-0-4
Road Record: 11-6-2-1
Goals For: 120
Goals Against: 117
Standings: 2nd Place
Merritt Centennials Returning Players:
Chad Brears (91)
Brent Fletcher (92)
Silvan Harper (92)
Sean Maktaak (92)
Billy Marshall (91)
Brandon Pfeil (92)
Jakob Reichert (93)
Regan Soquila (93)
Evan Stack (91)
Reece Willcox (94)
Lino Chimienti (91)
Tyler Steel (93)
Departing & traded players from last years team:
Dustin Lebrun (92)
David Sabey (91)
Richard Sabourin (92)
Stephen Wall (91)
Dylan Playfair (92)
Kameran Crawford (91)
Max Vallis (91)
Jeff Jones (91)
Blaine Bokenfohr (90)
Steve Tresierra (90)
Brett Kolins (92)
At Home this season vs. Vernon:
1-0-0-1
On The Road this season vs. Vernon:
1-0-1-0
Merritt’s Powerplay vs. Vernon this season:
1-18
Merritt’s scoring leaders vs. Vernon this season:
Sean Maktaak (2-1-3)
Regan Soquila (1-2-3)
Reece Willcox (1-2-3)
Chad Brears (2-0-2)
Evan Stack (1-1-2)
Brandon Bruce (0-2-2)
Billy Marshall (0-2-2)
Brent Fletcher (0-1-1)
Payton Schaefer (0-1-1)
Dylan Chanter (1-0-1)
Brendan Lamont (1-0-1)
Lino Chimienti (1-1-1-0 Record)
Tyler Steel (1-0 Record)
Key’s and Notes to tonight’s game:
-Merritt has the leagues 11th best powerplay
-The Cents have the BCHL's 11th best penalty kill
-Former Merritt Centennial and Vernon Vipers forward, Luke Pierce faces his former team
-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
-Regan Soquila (12-37-49) is the lone Centennial in the league's top twenty in scoring
-Tyler Steel (9-7-1 Record, 2 Shutouts, 2.87 GAA) is in the league's top ten goaltenders
Here's a look at both teams rosters:
Vernon Vipers:
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/stats_1team.cfm?leagueID=2393&clientID=1413&teamid=224096
Merritt Centennials:
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/stats_1team.cfm?leagueID=2393&clientID=1413&teamid=224100
Vipers Land Cyr At Trade Deadline After Walchuk Leaves:
Vipers land Cyr at trade deadline after Walchuk leaves
By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star
Published: January 13, 2012
Reeling after three straight losses, and with an unexpected roster spot to fill, Vernon Vipers’ head coach/GM Jason Williamson made the most of his B.C. Hockey League trade deadline options Tuesday.
With forward Dylan Walchuk’s shocking announcement that morning he was leaving to play with the WHL Spokane Chiefs, Williamson scrambled to acquire veteran forward Colton Cyr from the Nanaimo Clippers. To get the deal done, Williamson plucked 1991-born forward Clayton Chessa from the Trail Smoke Eaters for future considerations, and then sent him to Nanaimo for Cyr, 20.
Cyr, who captained the Clippers last season under former head coach Bill Bestwick (Vernon’s Trevor Fitzgerald is captain of Mike Vandekamp’s squad this season), will be in the lineup when the fifth-place Vipers (17-16-1-2) visit the Merritt Centennials (21-10-2-5) tonight at Nicola Valley Arena.
Vernon hosts the surging Coquitlam Express (21-12-2-2) Saturday night at Wesbild Centre, followed by a 2 p.m. Sunday matinee against the third-place Prince George Spruce Kings (19-13-2-3).
“Colton Cyr’s a guy that’s going to come in here and be an honest player,” said Williamson. “He’s been around, he’s been another captain, and every report we get, he’s just a good heart-and-soul kid and that’s what we need right now.”
Cyr, who spent his entire BCHL career with his hometown Clippers, has nine goals and five assists and 37 penalty minutes in 29 games this season. The 5-foot-11, 175-pounder has 90 points in 202 career games.
“I thought if I was going to be traded it would have been earlier in the year,” Cyr told the Morning Star as he drove from the coast Wednesday afternoon. “It was kind of getting late (Tuesday) and I was getting the feeling everything was done, but obviously it wasn’t.
“It’s kind of mixed feelings. I didn’t feel like I was playing as much as maybe I thought I’d earned. Obviously, that’s not in my hands, but now that things are said and done I’m excited to be moving on.
“It’s too bad because I’ve got a lot of friends I’m leaving behind, but it’s out of my hands. It’ll be nice to play away from home and play for a team that’s expected to win every night.”
Williamson looked at other trade options, and at what some of his Interior rivals were up to, but decided to stand pat.
“Did I want to get in on some of that? Ya probably, but at what cost? There were some other things that were out there that were available, but the price was too high.
“Things haven’t went our way in the last little bit, but I like our players when our team is healthy and I’m going to stick by our guys.
Williamson was disappointed by Walchuk’s rapid departure, especially considering he had just traded forward Peter McMullen to the Langley Rivermen on the weekend to clear roster space.
Walchuk, a McBride, B.C. product, had a goal and five assists in six games since returning to Vernon from the NCAA Division 1 Northern Michigan Wildcats. When he first announced he wanted to return to junior A, Williamson says he urged him to stay in college before eventually allowing him back.
“I asked them (Walchuk and his father) to commit to us and they said they would, and after six games they practically quit on us,” said Williamson. “It was a tough day yesterday when he came into the office eight hours before the deadline and said he was going to leave.
“Maybe it wasn’t what it was cracked up to be for Dylan, but he’s got to make the players around him better and that’s partially your character, and he’s looking for the easy way out.
“He was a good player for us in the past and he’s done a lot for us, but the team has done a lot for him too.”
According to a Vipers’ press release, academics were a factor in Walchuk’s decision to pursue the WHL route. He could not be reached for comment before the Morning Star’s Thursday press deadline.
Said Chiefs’ GM Tim Speltz, on the team’s website: “Dylan is a very competitive and complete player. We are excited that he has chosen this route to fulfill his goal to become a professional hockey player. His skill and determination will complement our group of forwards.”
SNAKE BITES: Cyr is the nephew of former NHLer Paul Cyr, who racked up 241 points and 623 penalty minutes in 470 career games with the Sabres, Rangers and Whalers in the 1980s. Paul, also a former Clipper (1979-80), was selected ninth overall in the 1982 Entry Draft... McMullen, a New Jersey native, had three goals and four assists in 22 games with the Snakes... The Victoria Grizzlies were the league’s big sellers at the deadline, shipping star forwards Wade Murphy (Penticton Vees), Mike Moran (AJHL Spruce Grove Saints) and Jarryd Ten Vaanholt (Spruce Kings).
Corkey Inks Colgate Scholarship:
Corkey inks Colgate scholarship
By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star
Published: January 13, 2012
Brett Corkey could pretty much point at any hockey state on a U.S. map and find an NCAA Division 1 hockey program that would want his services.
The smooth-skating Vernon Vipers’ defenceman accepted a scholarship with one of the best – the Colgate Raiders of Hamilton, N.Y.
“I went down and took a look at it on a flydown and I thought it was a good fit,” said Corkey. “One of my buddies (John Lidgett, former AJHL Camrose Kodiak) goes there and he really likes the place and likes the coaches and likes the team.
“It’s good to finally get that done with and now I can focus on where we need to get to at the end of the season as a team.”
Corkey, who wore an ‘A’ with Team Canada West at the World Junior A Challenge last November in Langley, does it all for Vernon – He quarterbacks their top powerplay unit, kills penalties and can always be counted on to make the smart play. In 31 games this season, he has two goals and 20 assists for 22 points and 16 penalty minutes.
“He’s very good back there,” said Vernon head coach Jason Williamson. “He’s a quiet leader, but he never takes a game off. He’s competing hard in practice and he’s always doing what we ask in the games.”
The good news for the Vipers is the 19-year-old Calgary product will play his 20-year-old season with Vernon before heading to school. Already an alternate captain this season, he is a likely candidate to succeed captain Pat McGillis in 2012-13.
“I love being here, I love playing for Willy and the coaching staff,” said Corkey. “I feel like I can get that much better in that extra year and make more of an impact in my first year in college.
With the scholarship taken care of, Corkey will now focus on getting the struggling Vipers into the playoffs.
“We just got to stick with the game-plan. It’s a process we’ve been working on all year. We’re getting there; each day we’re a little better at practice, we’re in the gym every day and we’re doing all the little things right.”
SNAKE BITES: Former Viper d-man Mike Leidl is in his junior year with the Raiders. Pointless in five games this season, the stay-at-home defender has a goal and three helpers in 54 career NCAA games... The 12-6-2 Raiders are ranked 12th overall in the uscho.com Division I men’s poll...A total of seven BCHLers made Central Scouting’s mid-term rankings of the top-210 North American skaters: Jujhar Khaira (No. 80, Prince George Spruce Kings), Alexander Kerfoot (No. 81, Coquitlam Express), Morgan Zulinick (No. 104, Salmon Arm SilverBacks), Reece Willcox (No. 114, Merritt Centennials), Devon Toews (No. 181, Surrey Eagles), Paul De Jersey (No. 203, Spruce Kings) and Wade Murphy (No. 204, Penticton Vees).
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Trade Deadline Come & Gone:
Well with Tuesday's BCHL trade deadline come and gone do the Vipers have what it takes to get into the BCHL playoffs and make a good run deep into the playoffs?
Before Tuesday's deadline the Vipers were forced to trade 18 yr old forward, Peter McMullen to Langley for future considerations after captain, Patrick McGillis returned to the lineup last weekend.
The Vipers were then delt a huge blow on Tuesday's deadline after 19 yr old forward, Dylan Walchuk left the Vipers joining the WHL Spokane Cheifs just a few weeks after returning to Vernon after leaving the University of Northern Michigan. This is a huge blow to the Vipers who were looking for some offence-leadership from the second third year Viper. It's very hard replacing a player like Walchuk, especially on the final deadline day.
Jason Williamson and the Vipers pulled off just one trade before Tursday's deadline aquiring 20 yr old forward, Clayton Chessa from the Trail Smoke Eaters for future considerations before sending Chessa to Nanaimo for 20 yr old forward and Nanaimo product, Colton Cyr. Due to the fact that the Vipers & Clippers only face each other once or twice a season I dont know alot about Cyr who has played all five seasons with his hometown Clippers. In 202 regular season games with Nanaimo Cyr has collected (48-42-90). Cyr has collected 29 pts the past two seasons with 14 pts so far this season. Listed at 5"11, 175 lbs the veteran 20 yr old should bring in some veteran BCHL experience as well as leadership. Cyr should make his Vipers debut tomorrow night in Merritt. Welcome to Vernon Colton!
I was hoping the Vipers could have picked up a veteran defenceman to help bolster the blueline. You can bet if the Vipers were looking at a veteran d-man-player they would have to give up alot in return. Kirby Halcrow who hasnt been the same goaltender as he has shown the past two years, needs to step up his game and show Viper fans as well as the rest of the league he is a #1 goaltender that can give the Vipers solid goaltening down the road and hopefully help guide the Vipers into a playoff spot.
Let's hope Ben Gamache, John Knisley and Luke Juha return soon and the Vipers can stay healthy and make a good run for one of the final two playoff spots, stay healthy and do some damage in the playoffs, where anything can happen.
Before Tuesday's deadline the Vipers were forced to trade 18 yr old forward, Peter McMullen to Langley for future considerations after captain, Patrick McGillis returned to the lineup last weekend.
The Vipers were then delt a huge blow on Tuesday's deadline after 19 yr old forward, Dylan Walchuk left the Vipers joining the WHL Spokane Cheifs just a few weeks after returning to Vernon after leaving the University of Northern Michigan. This is a huge blow to the Vipers who were looking for some offence-leadership from the second third year Viper. It's very hard replacing a player like Walchuk, especially on the final deadline day.
Jason Williamson and the Vipers pulled off just one trade before Tursday's deadline aquiring 20 yr old forward, Clayton Chessa from the Trail Smoke Eaters for future considerations before sending Chessa to Nanaimo for 20 yr old forward and Nanaimo product, Colton Cyr. Due to the fact that the Vipers & Clippers only face each other once or twice a season I dont know alot about Cyr who has played all five seasons with his hometown Clippers. In 202 regular season games with Nanaimo Cyr has collected (48-42-90). Cyr has collected 29 pts the past two seasons with 14 pts so far this season. Listed at 5"11, 175 lbs the veteran 20 yr old should bring in some veteran BCHL experience as well as leadership. Cyr should make his Vipers debut tomorrow night in Merritt. Welcome to Vernon Colton!
I was hoping the Vipers could have picked up a veteran defenceman to help bolster the blueline. You can bet if the Vipers were looking at a veteran d-man-player they would have to give up alot in return. Kirby Halcrow who hasnt been the same goaltender as he has shown the past two years, needs to step up his game and show Viper fans as well as the rest of the league he is a #1 goaltender that can give the Vipers solid goaltening down the road and hopefully help guide the Vipers into a playoff spot.
Let's hope Ben Gamache, John Knisley and Luke Juha return soon and the Vipers can stay healthy and make a good run for one of the final two playoff spots, stay healthy and do some damage in the playoffs, where anything can happen.
Vernon Vipers Player Profile With #17 Ben Gamache:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=2DbnxFzo6G4
Former Vernon Viper Marino Named MVP At CHL All-Star Game:
Brandon Marino's Player Profile:
http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=93732
This is posted on the Mallards website:
MARINO NAMED ALL-STAR MVP
01/11/2012 5:27 PM
The Quad City Mallards’ Brandon Marino was named Central Hockey League All-Star Game Most Valuable Player after scoring the winning goal and collecting three assists as the CHL All-Stars defeated the host Arizona Sundogs 6-4 in Wednesday night.
Marino provided the deciding goal when he walked in alone to snap a 4-4 tie with 3:59 left in the third period. Marino then added his game-high fourth point when he assisted on the clinching empty net goal scored by the Tulsa Oilers’ Jeff Terminesi with just 36 seconds left in the contest.
Marino, who was chosen as an All-Star starter, notched his first assist at 16:21 of the first period when the Allen Americans’ Bruce Graham scored for the All-Stars to break a 1-1 deadlock. Marino then recorded his second assist by setting up the Wichita Thunder’s Matt Robinson for the third All-Star goal at 7:25 of the second period.
Marino (22-24-46) leads the CHL in goals and power play goals (9), is tied for second in shorthanded goals (3) and ranks third in points. He is riding an 11-game point scoring streak (10-8-18) and has produced points in 17 of his last 18 games (14-13-27). Marino’s point scoring streak is the longest active run in the CHL and also the longest for a Mallard this season. By picking up two points in Sunday’s win over Missouri- his thirty-second game- Marino eclipsed his previous career high of 44 points in a season, a total he reached as a rookie in 73 games in 2009-10.
The Mallards return from the All-Star break to meet the Dayton Gems Friday night at 7:05 p.m. at the i wireless Center. The Mallards will wear special edition Central Hockey League twentieth anniversary jerseys during that contest. Those jerseys will be up for bid in a silent auction during Friday evening’s game to benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Mississippi Valley and the Central Hockey League Player Assistance Fund.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
BCHL Trades From Trade Deadline Day:
10-Jan-12 The Victoria Grizzlies Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Mike Moran (91)(F) to the Spruce Grove Saints Hockey Club of the AJHL in exchange for future considerations.
10-Jan-12 The Powell River Kings Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Jamie Phillips (91)(G) to the Toronto Jr Canadians Hockey Club of the OJHL in exchange for the playing rights of JP Villeneuve.
10-Jan-12 The Chilliwack Chiefs Hockey Club of the BCHL acquire the playing rights of Kody Dhaliwal (91)(F) from the Flin Flon Bombers Hockey Club of the SJHL in exchange for future considerations.
10-Jan-12 The Prince George Spruce Kings Hockey Club acquire the playing rights of Zack Rascell (92)(F) and future considerations from the Canmore Eagles Hockey Club of the AJHL in exchange for future considerations.
10-Jan-12 The Nanaimo Clippers transfer the playing rights of Teal Burns (92)(F) to the Powell River Kings in exchange for the playing rights of Brenden Forbes (92)(F) and Taylor Carmola (92)(D).
10-Jan-12 The Victoria Grizzlies Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Jamie Tucker (91)(G) and Mike Collins (91)(F) to the Dauphin Kings Hockey Club of the MJHL in exchange for future considerations.
10-Jan-12 The Victoria Grizzlies transfer the playing rights of Wade Murphy (92) (F) to the Penticton Vees in exchange for the playing rights of Mark McLellan (94)(F) and future considerations.
10-Jan-12 The Vernon Vipers transfer the playing right of Clayton Chessa (91)(F) to the Nanaimo Clippers in exchange for the the playing rights of Colton Cyr (91)(F).
10-Jan-12 The Alberni Valley Bulldogs Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Kirsten Odendaal to the Olds Grizzlys Hockey Club of the AJHL in exchange for the playing rights of Hunter Stewart.
10-Jan-12 The Chilliwack Chiefs transfer the playing rights of Mike Berry (93)(D) to the Salmon Arm SilverBacks in exchange for future considerations.
10-Jan-12 The Westside Warriors Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Michael King (93)(D) and Izaak Berglund (93)(D) to the Llyodminster Bobcats Hockey Club of the AJHL in exchange for future considerations.
10-Jan-12 The Trail Smoke Eaters trade the playing rights of Clayton Chessa (91)(F) to the Vernon Vipers in exchange for future considerations.
10-Jan-12 The Victoria Grizzlies Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Jarryd Ten Vaanholt (91)(F) to the Prince George Spruce Kings Hockey Club in exchange for future considerations.
Vernon-Trail-Nanaimo Trade:
10-Jan-12 The Trail Smoke Eaters trade the playing rights of Clayton Chessa (91)(F) to the Vernon Vipers in exchange for future considerations.
10-Jan-12 The Vernon Vipers transfer the playing right of Clayton Chessa (91)(F) to the Nanaimo Clippers in exchange for the the playing rights of Colton Cyr (91)(F).
Clayton Chessa's Player Profile:
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=305112&playerID=490184
Colton Cyr's Player Profile:
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=305111&playerID=451634
Vernon-Nanaimo Trade:
Colton Cyr's Player Profile:
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=305112&playerID=451634
Grizzlies Trade Former Viper Ten Vaanholt To Spruce Kings:
This is posted on the Spruce Kings website:
Ten Vaanholt Acquired at Trade Deadline
Tuesday, 10 January 2012
PRINCE GEORGE, BC – The Prince George Spruce Kings of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) have acquired Jarryd Ten Vaanholt from the Victoria Grizzlies of the BCHL in exchange for future considerations.
Jarryd Ten Vaanholt is a 6' 2" 205 lbs '91 born forward from West Vancouver, BC. Playing in his second full season in the BCHL, Ten Vaanholt has a record of 39 goals and 52 assists in 97 games.
"We're very excited to add a player of Jarryd's ability and character to our team," said Spruce Kings General Manager, Mike Hawes. "Jarryd is a proven all around good player in our league and has been able to put up good offensive numbers and will improve our offensive depth up front."
Jarryd Ten Vaanholt is expected to be with the Spruce Kings for a couple of practices before the team heads out for three games on the road. The Spruce Kings are in Chilliwack Friday night, Penticton Saturday night and Vernon on Sunday afternoon.
Struggling Vipers Considering Deadline Deals:
Struggling Vipers considering deadline deals
By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star
Published: January 10, 2012
The Penticton Vees are running away with the Interior Conference, and the Merritt Centennials appear to be breaking away from the playoff pack.
That leaves the third-place Prince George Spruce Kings and No. 4 Chilliwack Chiefs as the teams the Vernon Vipers will be targeting for a berth in the B.C. Hockey League postseason.
Vipers’ head coach/GM Jason Williamson was working the phones Tuesday prior to the 8 p.m. trade deadline for any last-minute deals to improve his club. As of the Morning Star’s Tuesday afternoon press time, no moves had been made.
The Vipers, fifth in the Interior at 17-16-1-2, are losers of three straight, including an entertaining 3-1 loss to the Cents (20-10-2-5) Saturday night at Wesbild Centre.
Williamson would gladly settle for a healthy lineup over a blockbuster deal. He completed one transaction Saturday, sending forward Peter McMullen to the Langley Rivermen in exchange for future considerations. The trade was made to make room for returning captain Patrick McGillis, who has been out with an ankle sprain since Oct. 7.
“We had to move a forward to move a forward in, and it’s a numbers game,” said Williamson. “He’s (McMullen) going to school (NCAA Boston College Eagles) next year, and some of the other guys are going to be returning for years to come.”
McGillis, 20, earned an assist on Vernon’s lone goal Saturday, connecting on a beauty three-way passing play with Dylan Walchuk, converted in front of the net by Colton Sparrow during a late powerplay in the second period.
“I’m happy to be back out there trying to help the guys put some wins back in the column, but tonight was frustrating with the way the game turned out,” said McGillis, who, charging in from the wing, rang the crossbar with a snap shot in the second period.
“Definitely not in mid-season form like the rest of the guys, but after I got the first period out of the way, it was coming back a little bit better. There’s still a ways to go before I’m where I want to be.”
Cents’ forward Brendan Lamont clicked on a give-and-go with Regan Soquila for the winner earlier in the second period.
Soquila collected a smart stretch pass from Cents’ defenceman Billy Marshall to put the game away with an empty-netter before 1,400 fans in the final minute.
“We out-chanced them, we out-hit them and outshot them, but it was pretty evenly played. We went post-and-out and their’s went post-and-in,” said Williamson, referring to Lamont’s winner.
Armstrong’s Dylan Chanter, normally a defenceman, played up front for the Cents and was rewarded with the opening goal, his second of the season, as he went to the net and redirected a pass from Brandon Bruce in the first period.
“I went to the net and Bruce was in the corner and he said he saw someone up there and he threw it there and I took a swipe and it just ended up in the back of the net,” smiled the 6-foot-3 Chanter.
“You need a bit more endurance up there (at forward), and it was fun, but I’m looking to getting back on defence for sure.”
It has been six years since Merritt had a winning season (2005-06), and Chanter, 16, wasn’t sure if it would be more of the same when he arrived this season.
“Some people were saying we were going to be last, some thought we would do alright, but I don’t think anyone expected us to be in the position we’re in right now,” he said.
Added Cents’ head coach Luke Pierce: “It’s great for our organization and it’s great for the people of Merritt who stood by us when things weren’t good.
“All the credit has to go to these kids. It’s just so nice to see the development in guys that, last year, were three- or four-goal guys that are now big contributors to our lineup.”
Even with the Vees’ dominance this year, Pierce, a former Viper, says the Centennials aren’t about to roll over.
“Penticton’s having an outstanding year, but some people might be getting the impression that there’s no point in trying to challenge this year, that they’re just going to win anyway. If you concede defeat, what’s the point?”
Cents’ keeper Lino Chimienti, with 35 stops, and Vipers’ netminder Kirby Halcrow, with 32 saves, recorded second and third star respectively.
“There’s not a lot of difference. It was a great hockey game with a lot of momentum swings both ways,” said Pierce. “For Vernon right now, there a break or two from winning a lot of these games. We just happened to capitalize when we had our opportunities.”
The Vipers battle Merritt Friday night at Nicola Valley Arena before starting a three-game home stand against the Coquitlam Express (20-12-2-2) Saturday at Wesbild. They host Prince George (19-13-2-3) in a 2 p.m. matinee Sunday.
SNAKE BITES: The Vees (33-3-0-2) have won 21 straight games, including a 6-1 over the Salmon Arm SilverBacks Saturday night at the Shaw Centre. Penticton leapfrogged the 33-3 Woodstock Slammers of Manitoba for first place in the weekly CJHL national poll... After shading Vernon 4-3 Friday night, the travel-weary Victoria Grizzlies (18-21) fell 3-2 to the last-place Trail Smoke Eaters (6-24-1-4) Saturday, and bowed 10-2 to the Westside Warriors (12-19-1-5) Sunday...Viper defenceman Brett Corkey, 19, has committed to play with the NCAA Colgate Raiders in New York for the 2013-14 season.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Vernon-Trail-Nanaimo Trade:
Colton Cyr's Player Profile:
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=305112&playerID=451634
Clayton Chessa's Player Profile:
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=305116&playerID=490184
Struggling Vipers Considering Deadline Deals:
This is posted on the Vernon Morning Star website:
Struggling Vipers considering deadline deals
By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star
Published: January 10, 2012 3:00 PM
The Penticton Vees are running away with the Interior Conference, and the Merritt Centennials appear to be breaking away from the playoff pack.
That leaves the third-place Prince George Spruce Kings and No. 4 Chilliwack Chiefs as the teams the Vernon Vipers will be targeting for a berth in the B.C. Hockey League postseason.
Vipers’ head coach/GM Jason Williamson was working the phones Tuesday prior to the 8 p.m. trade deadline for any last-minute deals to improve his club. As of the Morning Star’s Tuesday afternoon press time, no moves had been made.
Struggling Vipers considering deadline deals
By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star
Published: January 10, 2012 3:00 PM
The Penticton Vees are running away with the Interior Conference, and the Merritt Centennials appear to be breaking away from the playoff pack.
That leaves the third-place Prince George Spruce Kings and No. 4 Chilliwack Chiefs as the teams the Vernon Vipers will be targeting for a berth in the B.C. Hockey League postseason.
Vipers’ head coach/GM Jason Williamson was working the phones Tuesday prior to the 8 p.m. trade deadline for any last-minute deals to improve his club. As of the Morning Star’s Tuesday afternoon press time, no moves had been made.
Walchuk Leaves Vipers For WHL:
Chiefs Add Walchuk to Roster
January 10, 2012
CHIEFS ADD WALCHUK TO ROSTER
The Spokane Chiefs have announced the addition of 19-year-old center Dylan Walchuk to their roster. The British Columbia native was originally added to the Chiefs 50-player protected list in December, 2008.
Last season Walchuk led the Vernon Vipers of the British Columbia Hockey League in points with 56, including 24 goals and 32 assists. He added another 13 goals and 20 points in 24 playoff games as Vernon finished as a runner-up in the Royal Bank Cup Championship, the Canadian Junior A National Title, one year after winning it. As a 17-year-old in 2009-10, Walchuk had 19 goals and 47 points in 56 games and was a member of the Vipers' 2010 Royal Bank Cup Championship.
"Dylan is a very competitive and complete player," Chiefs General Manager Tim Speltz said. "We are excited that he has chosen this route to fulfill his goal to become a professional hockey player. His skill and determination will complement our group of forwards."
The addition puts the Chiefs roster at 24 players; two goaltenders, eight defenseman and 14 forwards. Tuesday also acted as the final day that WHL teams could make transactions.
Walchuk will join the Chiefs after splitting time this season at Northern Michigan University and Vernon. In 19 games at Northern Michigan he had two goals and eight points and in six games in Vernon he scored one goal and six points.
Walchuk will arrive in Spokane this week but it is undetermined as to when he will play his first game. Spokane hosts the Everett Silvertips for the final time this season on Wednesday night. It is the first of four games in six nights as Spokane travels to Everett on Friday, hosts Tri-City Saturday and Seattle on Monday at a special 2:00 p.m. start.
Dylan Walchuk's Player Profile:
http://bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=305111&playerID=471094
Ben Gamache Post-Game Interview:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zoEzliXq39E&feature=player_embedded
Former Viper Gill Named Hockey East Weekly Top Performer:
Hockey East weekly top performers. Gill Recorded a goal and an assist in the Terriers' 4-2 victory over No. 6 Merrimack on Friday. Gill in his second season with the Terriers, played two years in Vernon from (2008-2010).
McMullen Tradeable With BCHL Trade Deadline Tonight:
With the return of Vipers captain, Patrick McGillis Saturday night the Vipers were forced to release or trade someone due to the 21 man roster rule. McGillis who was on the injured reserve forced the Vipers to trade Peter McMullen.
McMullen who signed with Vernon back in late October after a short stint in the USHL was trade bait due to the fact that the 18 yr old forward wont be back next season (going to Boston College).
McMullen who collected (3-4-7) in 22 games with Vernon has some good size, plays physical and isnt afraid to drop the gloves. McMullen who mostly saw icetime on Vernon's fourth line added some size and strength to the Vipers. I really liked McMullen but he needs to play with a little more consistancy. He looked good one night and then you wouldnt notice him the next night. Maybe with all the injuries and "AP"s he had troubles adjusting to new line mates. For a bigger kid I wish he would use his size and play more physical and play in and around the net more, he may score a few more goals.
Im a little surprised that a team like Langley aquired McMullen due to the fact that the Rivermen sit in 6th spot in the Coastal Conference and sixteen points out of the final playoff spot & the former Viper is heading off to Boston College next season. All the best in Langley Peter.
With McMullen traded and McGillis back in the lineup the Vipers still sit with a 22 man roster. Luke Juha is on the injured reserve. It will be interesting to see who will be traded before tonight's deadline to get the roster back down to 21. Will the Vipers make any more moves before tonight's deadline? The Vipers still have room for one more twenty yr old. Will the Vipers add another veteran defenceman or maybe pick up another scorer for a late run at the final playoff spot?
McMullen who signed with Vernon back in late October after a short stint in the USHL was trade bait due to the fact that the 18 yr old forward wont be back next season (going to Boston College).
McMullen who collected (3-4-7) in 22 games with Vernon has some good size, plays physical and isnt afraid to drop the gloves. McMullen who mostly saw icetime on Vernon's fourth line added some size and strength to the Vipers. I really liked McMullen but he needs to play with a little more consistancy. He looked good one night and then you wouldnt notice him the next night. Maybe with all the injuries and "AP"s he had troubles adjusting to new line mates. For a bigger kid I wish he would use his size and play more physical and play in and around the net more, he may score a few more goals.
Im a little surprised that a team like Langley aquired McMullen due to the fact that the Rivermen sit in 6th spot in the Coastal Conference and sixteen points out of the final playoff spot & the former Viper is heading off to Boston College next season. All the best in Langley Peter.
With McMullen traded and McGillis back in the lineup the Vipers still sit with a 22 man roster. Luke Juha is on the injured reserve. It will be interesting to see who will be traded before tonight's deadline to get the roster back down to 21. Will the Vipers make any more moves before tonight's deadline? The Vipers still have room for one more twenty yr old. Will the Vipers add another veteran defenceman or maybe pick up another scorer for a late run at the final playoff spot?
Monday, January 9, 2012
Vernon-Langley Trade:
Peter McMullen's Player Profile:
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=305110&playerID=843395
This is posted on the BCHL website:
07-Jan-12 The Vernon Vipers Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Peter McMullen (F)(93) to the Langley Rivermen Hockey Club in exchange for future considerations.
2011-12 Vernon Vipers Player Intro-Highlight Video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=0qmReLrzp2U
Raiders Aquire Former Viper Try-Out Lee-Knight In Trade With Cheifs:
Luke Lee-Knight's Player Profile:
http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=145164
This is posted on the Raiders website:
Raiders Aqcuire Bardaro and Lee-Knight from Spokane
December, 28th 2011
Prince Albert SK – The Prince Albert Raiders announced that have acquired 19-year-old centre Anthony Bardaro, 18-year-old goaltender Luke Lee-Knight and a 5th round draft pick in the 2012 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft from the Spokane Chiefs. In exchange, the Raiders have traded 18-year-old goaltender Eric Williams and 18-year-old forward Todd Fiddler to Spokane.
Bardaro currently leads the Chiefs in scoring, with 18 goals and 19 assists for 37 points in 29 games played. Now in his 3rd full season in the WHL, the Delta, BC product has recorded 47 goals and 49 assists as well as 57 penalty minutes in 162 games played. He has also appeared in 30 playoff games, scoring 2 goals and adding 5 assists in post-season play.
Lee-Knight has posted a 2.91 GAA and .868 save percentage with a 2-0-1-1 record in 9 contests this season. The Calgary, AB native returns to the Raiders after being traded to the Chiefs on September 15th in exchange for defenseman Tyler Vanscourt.
“We are extremely pleased to add Anthony to our line-up. He is a skilled offensive player that will be a big part of our team this year, as well as next season as a 20-year-old. We are happy to bring Luke back and believe he will compliment Cole Holowenko nicely,” said Raiders General Manager Bruno Campese. “Our organization would like to thank Eric and Todd for their contributions to our club over the past 2 seasons and wish them all the best in Spokane.”
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Vipers Release McMullen:
With the return to the line-up of captain Patrick McGillis, the Snakes have released F Peter McMullen (93). McMullen just joined Vernon near the end of October from the USHL's Omaha Lancers, it'll be interesting to see where he lands before Tuesday, if not even back with the Vipers.
Lon Fraser Post-Game Interview:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fN0tjklWIyE&feature=player_embedded
Chimienti Backstops Centennial Win:
This is posted on the Vipers website:
Chimienti backstops Centennial win
by Don Klepp | Added 2012-01-08
Kirby Halcrow also had a strong game.
Lino Chimienti was good and he was lucky as he led the Merritt Centennials to a 3-1 road win on Saturday.
The 20-year-old from Laval, Quebec held his team in the game during the opening 12 minutes of the game when the Vipers set up camp in the Merritt zone. Most of his 13 saves in the first period came during that stretch.
However, the Centennial skaters worked their way back into the game with their trademark hustle and opened the scoring at 12:00 when Armstrong’s Dylan Chanter converted a Brandon Bruce centering feed.
The Vipers responded with some energy of their own. Following the example of their captain, Patrick McGillis, they pounded the Cents with punishing hits. McGillis returned to action after missing 29 games with an ankle injury.
McGillis was instrumental in the Vipers’ lone goal, scored on the power play at 10:18 of the second period. He dug the puck out of the right corner and dished to Dylan Walchuk, who zipped a cross crease pass to Colton Sparrow for an uncontested deflection to the top corner.
That goal brought the score to 2-1. Earlier in the period, the Centennials had taken a two-goal lead on Brendan Lamont’s second goal of the season. Lamont and Regan Soquila outworked two Vipers during a standoff at the Viper blue line. They then broke into the Viper zone with one man back and Lamont hustled to the net for a tip in.
The Vipers twice came within a whisker of tying the score. Late in the second period, Patrick McGillis broke in from the right wing and beat Chimienti with a snap shot that rang off the cross bar.
Ryan Renz hit Chimienti’s right post midway through the third period, one of several gilt-edged chances that the Vipers nearly converted. Chimienti made several good stops on deflections and bang-bang plays and saw other shots skim by his posts.
Regan Soquila’s empty netter at 19:29 capped a frustrating evening for the Vipers, who out shot, out chanced, and out hit the Centennials. However, the Cents’ work ethic clearly earned the victory as they played a textbook road game.
The two teams will resume their rivalry in Merritt next Friday.
After the game, the injured Ben Gamache asked Viper fans for their continued support. "Every Viper believes that we can turn this streak around and make a run for the playoffs. The fans are great here, and we really value their support. We want to win for them, and we will!"
Chimienti backstops Centennial win
by Don Klepp | Added 2012-01-08
Kirby Halcrow also had a strong game.
Lino Chimienti was good and he was lucky as he led the Merritt Centennials to a 3-1 road win on Saturday.
The 20-year-old from Laval, Quebec held his team in the game during the opening 12 minutes of the game when the Vipers set up camp in the Merritt zone. Most of his 13 saves in the first period came during that stretch.
However, the Centennial skaters worked their way back into the game with their trademark hustle and opened the scoring at 12:00 when Armstrong’s Dylan Chanter converted a Brandon Bruce centering feed.
The Vipers responded with some energy of their own. Following the example of their captain, Patrick McGillis, they pounded the Cents with punishing hits. McGillis returned to action after missing 29 games with an ankle injury.
McGillis was instrumental in the Vipers’ lone goal, scored on the power play at 10:18 of the second period. He dug the puck out of the right corner and dished to Dylan Walchuk, who zipped a cross crease pass to Colton Sparrow for an uncontested deflection to the top corner.
That goal brought the score to 2-1. Earlier in the period, the Centennials had taken a two-goal lead on Brendan Lamont’s second goal of the season. Lamont and Regan Soquila outworked two Vipers during a standoff at the Viper blue line. They then broke into the Viper zone with one man back and Lamont hustled to the net for a tip in.
The Vipers twice came within a whisker of tying the score. Late in the second period, Patrick McGillis broke in from the right wing and beat Chimienti with a snap shot that rang off the cross bar.
Ryan Renz hit Chimienti’s right post midway through the third period, one of several gilt-edged chances that the Vipers nearly converted. Chimienti made several good stops on deflections and bang-bang plays and saw other shots skim by his posts.
Regan Soquila’s empty netter at 19:29 capped a frustrating evening for the Vipers, who out shot, out chanced, and out hit the Centennials. However, the Cents’ work ethic clearly earned the victory as they played a textbook road game.
The two teams will resume their rivalry in Merritt next Friday.
After the game, the injured Ben Gamache asked Viper fans for their continued support. "Every Viper believes that we can turn this streak around and make a run for the playoffs. The fans are great here, and we really value their support. We want to win for them, and we will!"
Grizzlies Ground Vipers In Third:
Grizzlies ground Vipers in third
By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star
Published: January 07, 2012
Even with celebrity A-listers Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban in attendance, birthday boy Jason Williamson was hardly in a celebratory mood Friday night at Wesbild Centre.
The Vernon Vipers’ head coach, who turned 31, spent the minutes after his team’s 4-3 B.C. Hockey League loss to the Victoria Grizzlies locked behind closed doors in a lengthy team meeting.
The 17-15-1-2 Snakes are three points out of an Interior Conference playoff spot, and with injuries to key personnel, have to be feeling a twinge of urgency with just 25 regular-season games remaining. They entertained the second-place Merritt Centennials (20-10-2-5) Saturday night at Wesbild.
“We can stare at a board all day long and look at what our roster looks like when everybody’s healthy... but right now we’re just battling for a playoff spot and we have to find that way to win,” said Vipers’ assistant coach Chris Shaw.
“It’s getting to the point where we have to step up collectively as a group. Daily, we do the right things, and it just comes down to executing when it’s game time. It’s just consistency and playing with passion any time you’re on the ice.”
Kidman and Urban, rumoured to be holidaying up at Silver Star Mountain Resort, left at the second intermission, missing out on Mike Moran’s winner with five minutes to play in regulation. Alex Holland jumpstarted the play by intercepting Max Mowat’s cross-ice pass at the blueline and transitioned into a 2-on-1. Kirby Halcrow (24 saves) made the initial stop, but the puck careened into the net off Moran’s fallen body as he crashed the net.
Vernon had plenty of jump to start the game and were rewarded with an early powerplay goal by second star Mike Zalewski, his 19th of the season. After some quick perimeter work, defenceman Brett Corkey fed the puck down low to the New Hartford, N.Y. native for a back-door one-timer in front of 2,000 fans.
Former Viper Jarryd Ten Vaanholt (17th goal), who was traded to Victoria in the preseason, answered for the 18-19 Grizzlies at 11:11, burying a loose puck in front of Halcrow.
Ten Vaanholt, who has 41 points in 36 games playing first-line minutes with snipers Wesley Myron and Wade Murphy, left the game later in the first period after suffering a knee-on-knee collision with Vernon defenceman Ryan Renz.
“It’s a big charley horse and luckily for me it wasn’t exactly on my knee, it’s just above it,” said Ten Vaanholt, who liked how his team responded after a sluggish start.
“It was a playoff atmosphere. You could tell both teams were desperate. It was right down to the wire. We need every point we can get and that was just a big win.”
Despite being traded, Ten Vaanholt holds no ill will towards the Vipers. If anything, he feels indebted to them for bringing him back to the BCHL after the Salmon Arm SilverBacks dealt him to the Saskatchewan league during the off-season.
“I never actually got to play a regular-season game, but Vernon did do a lot for me,” he said. “They got me out of Saskatchewan and back to the B.C. Hockey League, which is where I needed to be, so I can’t be mad at them.
“If you look at the stats I’ve put up, it’s not like they traded me back to Saskatchewan, or to a team where I’m buried in the lineup and not putting up points.
“Any time you get the chance to play against the old team, the team that traded you away, you always have that extra incentive. I guess getting that goal tonight was the cherry on top of the win.”
Darren Nowick (25th), taking a feed from Zalewski, showed some great hands in close to beat Grizzlies’ netminder Garrett Rockafellow to make it 2-1 after 20 minutes.
The Vipers had their eyes wide shut in the second period as the others from Victoria were far and away the better team, outshooting Vernon 11-6 and recording back-to-back goals to earn their first lead. Myron (17th, third star) got it started at 8:14 with a 5-on-3 goal, converting a slick cross-ice feed from Murphy.
Call-up player Dayne Ellison gave the visitors a 3-2 edge at 13:29 before Aaron Hadley equalized for Vernon late in the second frame.
Vernon dominated the third period, but couldn’t push a puck past first star Rockafellow (30 saves). The Crossfield, Alta. product came up with a desperation game stopper on Adam Tambellini five minutes into the final period. With the Vipers swarming, the downed keeper stretched his arm back across the crease to deny Tambellini from gimme range.
“I got pretty lucky. I just saw that he was shooting and laid back and put my arm around,” smiled Rockafellow, who played last season with the KIJHL Revelstoke Grizzlies.
Added Grizzlies’ assistant coach Rob Doyle: “That’s the save that turned the game around for us.
“Not very many people have taken wins out of this building in the last few years. The atmoshpere is great, you know they’re a good team and their rich hockey history and you have to come to play. It’s good for the guys and we’ll build on it.”
Rockafellow also shone in the first period, denying Corkey after a slick end-to-end rush, Turner Lawson, on a point-blank one-timer, and Tambellini, on a 2-on-1 with Colton Sparrow.
“We had bus legs in the first so I kind of knew what was expected,” said Rockafellow. “After the (first period), even though they came at us hard, it was good for us to rebound and finish off the game.”
SNAKE BITES: Williamson juggled his lineup Friday night, shifting Lawson, normally a d-man, up to the wing. He also called up Revelstoke Grizzlies blueliner Lucas Hildebrand.
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Merritt 3 Vernon 1
I was at tonight's BCHL game as Merritt defeated Vernon 3-1 in front of 1,412 fans at the Wesbild Centre.
Starting Goaltenders:
Vernon: Kirby Halcrow
Merritt: Lino Chimienti
1st Period: The Vipers just like last night started with alot of jump and showed alot of hustle getting off to a good start vs Merritt. Vernon who carried the play early and often played physical but was unable to generate or create any real good chances. About two and a half minutes into the opening period Dylan Walchuk with a good chance in close at the side of the net couldnt beat Lino Chimienti who stayed tight against the post keeping the puck out. Vernon looked good and was the better of the two teams in the first half outshooting the Centennials 7-2 just before the midway mark. Merritt then finally got the play into the Vipers zone, with some hard work down low the Cents battled and slowly started to plug away with a few good shifts deep in the Vernon zone before their hard work paid off, Brandon Bruce setup Dylan Chanter in front who beat Kirby Halcrow giving Merritt a 1-0 lead at 12:00 Bruce and Reece Wilcox collected the helpers. This goal seemed to give the Centennials some life as Merritt slowly plugged away and now it was the Cents who carried the better of the play. Shots were now 11-11. Just like the Vipers the Centennials couldnt generate much offence in a pretty tight checking game. Merritt now started to lay the body as Brendan Persley took a good two or three big checks. Adam Tambellini took a puck or a stick to the mouth and needed to head to the dressing room for some repairs missing the remainder of the 1st period but did return for the 2nd. Not alot of scoring chances as Vernon carried the better of the play in the first half before Merritt turned their game around and had the better of the play in the second half. The Cents with a 1-0 lead after 20 minutes of play. The Centennials outshot the Vipers 14-13.
2nd Period: Some fairly even play to start the second period before the Cents would get a few chances about six minutes into the period. Brendan Lamonts hard shot was stopped by Kirby Halcrow before Payton Schaefer collected the rebound but couldnt beat Kirby Halcrow who made a nice save off the Cents second opportunity. Shortly after the Vipers come very close to tying the game after a scramble in front of Lino Chimienti, Adam Tambellini was all alone at the side of the goal beat Chimienti but the Cents goaltender managed to sprawl back and get the puck before it crossed the goal line. The Vipers would then get a flurry of chances but Chimienti who played well come up with some good stops keeping this a one goal game. Brendan Persley took a big check deep in the Centannials zone and left the ice in some discomfort before heading to the dressing room. Persley would return to the Vipers bench shortly after and seemed ok. Darren Nowick with a great chance in front was robbed after Chimienti through up his arm-glove making a huge save off the arm. But the Cents didnt quit and come right back with some hard work along the boards in front of the Merritt bench, Regan Soquila and Brendan Lamont battled hard along the boards coming out of the scrum with the puck, as a Viper d-man jumped up into the play this gave the Centennials a two on one, with a nice give and go Lamont beat Halcrow at 10:18 giving Merritt a 2-0 lead. Soquila and Reece Wilcox with the assists. Patrick McGillis who returned to the Vipers lineup after being out since mid October come down the right wing and ripped a hard shot that beat Lino Chimienti but hit the post. The Viper captain would get a second opportunity late in the period with about a minute and a half remaining but Lino Chimienti come up with a nice save. The Vipers would get a late powerplay and capitalize after McGillis with a nice pass setup Vernon product Colton Sparrow at the side of the goal who beat Chimienti at 17:23 cutting the Merritt lead to within a goal. McGillis and Dylan Walchuk with the helpers. Vernon would take a penalty giving the Cents a late powerplay wich was carried over into the 3rd period. A fairly even played period as Merritt had a 2-1 lead after 40 minutes of play. Vernon outshot Merritt 12-11.
3rd Period: The Cents started the third with a short man advantage but a strong penalty kill by the Vipers killed off the minor. Not alot of scoring chances in tonight's game and it showed tonight as the Cents really played a tight checking game not giving Vernon alot of time and space. The Vipers would come very close to tying the game early after Ryan Renz's point shot beat Lino Chimienti but rang off the post. Just before the midway mark Vernon would get their second powerplay of the night but it was the Centennials strong penalty kill wich didnt allow a shot as Merritt killed off the minor. The Vipers who couldnt do much of anything in the 3rd went close to eight minutes without a shot on goal. The Cents just about went up by two after Ryan Renz was beat along the end wall, Jakob Reichert with some good hustle won the battle picked up the puck and caught Kirby Halcrow napping as Reichert went in all along in front and tried sliding the puck through a sleeping Halcrow who was just standing their but somehow the puck didnt get through as Halcrow and Renz both cleared the front of the crease on a bizzare play. The Vipers who couldnt generate any offence were playing more one on one and not as a team as the Vipers with several poor passes or missed passes made for some sloppy hockey. Late in the game the Vipers and Cents would both take minors giving Merritt a short powerplay before Vernon would get a short powerplay wity neither team capitalizing. In the final few minutes the Vipers tried getting Kirby Halcrow to the bench for the extra attacker but a strong forecheck and defensive play by the Cents clogged up any real room as Vernon once again struggled to find any kind of offence. The Vipers would finally get Halcrow to the bench with about 1:20 remaining before a blocked shot allowed Regan Soquila to hit the empty cage giving Merritt a 3-1 lead at 19:29 Billy Marshall with the lone assist on the play. With Halcrow still on the bench Brandon Bruce with a chance to hit the empty net was tied-hel up at the last second and couldnt get off a shot as the Centennials who played a very greasy road game come away with a big 3-1 victory. Vernon outshot Merritt 11-9.
Top Players: (Vernon)
Sean Robertson played a pretty good defensive game on the Vipers blueline.
Riley Hunt who didnt see alot of icetime down the stretch played with and showed alot of hustle and energy to start the game.
Game Thoughts: (Vernon)
The Vipers who now have lost three straight have just five wins in their last nineteen games see their season slipping away. Just like last night the Vipers come out with alot of jump-energy played physical and looked good early but wernt the same team as the game went on. For a team that is out of a playoff spot and fighting for a playoff spot I just dont see that desperation, this team is very uncosistant and has troubles playing a full sixty minutes. I just didnt see no urgency for a team that is out of a playoff spot. Tonight they had all kinds of trouble generating offence, and at times looked disorganized. Peter McMullen who was scratched tonight is no longer listed on the teams roster, was he released or traded? I dont know. With the BCHL trade deadline Tuesday it will be interesting to see if the Vipers make any moves. Great to see Patrick McGillis return to the lineup, McGillis who has missed most of the season looked good in the second period but will need some time to get his game going.
Top Players: (Merritt)
Billy Marshall (1 assist) I thought played very well on the Centennials blueline. Marshall wasnt afraid to carry the puck and jump up into the play. A bigger kid that played very well defensively.
Dylan Chanter (1 goal) Also played very well on the Cents backend.
Regan Soquila (1 goal & 1 assist) Played a strong game for the Centennials. A strong skater looked good with the puck.
Brandon Bruce (1 assist) I thought played fairly well.
Brendan Lamont (1 goal) Also played fairly well for Merritt, had a few chances tonight.
Brandon Pfeil was another Merritt d-man that played very well tonight. Very steady on the Cents backend.
Lino Chimienti (35 saves) Played well between the pipes for the Cents. Didnt see alot of action in periods one and three but made some key saves in the 2nd period where the Vipers come up with most of their opportunities. This kid dosnt give up alot of rebounds and plays his position well.
Game Thoughts: (Merritt)
Luke Pierce has this team playing its best hockey in a very long time. This Centennials team cant be taken lightly, this is a very hard working club that dosnt give you alot of time and space, plays a tight checking game and battles and competes hard every shift. Merritt won most of the races and battles for the pucks tonight, were very relentless on the forecheck and one on one battles. Merritt come up with a greasy road win over a Vipers team that is struggling. Not alot of scoring chances through out tonight's game. Merritt didnt really generate alot of scoring chances either but worked hard all night, battled and won the battles as well as capitalized on their chances. Overall not a very exciting game.
Scratches:
Vernon:
Peter McMullen
Luke Juha (Injured)
John Knisley (Injured)
Ben Gamache (Injured)
Merritt:
Sean Maktaak
3 Stars:
1st Star: Lino Chimienti (35 saves)
2nd Star: Regan Soquila (1 goal & 1 assist)
3rd Star: Kirby Halcrow (32 saves)
For more on tonight's game visit the boxscore,
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977553&link=bchl
Starting Goaltenders:
Vernon: Kirby Halcrow
Merritt: Lino Chimienti
1st Period: The Vipers just like last night started with alot of jump and showed alot of hustle getting off to a good start vs Merritt. Vernon who carried the play early and often played physical but was unable to generate or create any real good chances. About two and a half minutes into the opening period Dylan Walchuk with a good chance in close at the side of the net couldnt beat Lino Chimienti who stayed tight against the post keeping the puck out. Vernon looked good and was the better of the two teams in the first half outshooting the Centennials 7-2 just before the midway mark. Merritt then finally got the play into the Vipers zone, with some hard work down low the Cents battled and slowly started to plug away with a few good shifts deep in the Vernon zone before their hard work paid off, Brandon Bruce setup Dylan Chanter in front who beat Kirby Halcrow giving Merritt a 1-0 lead at 12:00 Bruce and Reece Wilcox collected the helpers. This goal seemed to give the Centennials some life as Merritt slowly plugged away and now it was the Cents who carried the better of the play. Shots were now 11-11. Just like the Vipers the Centennials couldnt generate much offence in a pretty tight checking game. Merritt now started to lay the body as Brendan Persley took a good two or three big checks. Adam Tambellini took a puck or a stick to the mouth and needed to head to the dressing room for some repairs missing the remainder of the 1st period but did return for the 2nd. Not alot of scoring chances as Vernon carried the better of the play in the first half before Merritt turned their game around and had the better of the play in the second half. The Cents with a 1-0 lead after 20 minutes of play. The Centennials outshot the Vipers 14-13.
2nd Period: Some fairly even play to start the second period before the Cents would get a few chances about six minutes into the period. Brendan Lamonts hard shot was stopped by Kirby Halcrow before Payton Schaefer collected the rebound but couldnt beat Kirby Halcrow who made a nice save off the Cents second opportunity. Shortly after the Vipers come very close to tying the game after a scramble in front of Lino Chimienti, Adam Tambellini was all alone at the side of the goal beat Chimienti but the Cents goaltender managed to sprawl back and get the puck before it crossed the goal line. The Vipers would then get a flurry of chances but Chimienti who played well come up with some good stops keeping this a one goal game. Brendan Persley took a big check deep in the Centannials zone and left the ice in some discomfort before heading to the dressing room. Persley would return to the Vipers bench shortly after and seemed ok. Darren Nowick with a great chance in front was robbed after Chimienti through up his arm-glove making a huge save off the arm. But the Cents didnt quit and come right back with some hard work along the boards in front of the Merritt bench, Regan Soquila and Brendan Lamont battled hard along the boards coming out of the scrum with the puck, as a Viper d-man jumped up into the play this gave the Centennials a two on one, with a nice give and go Lamont beat Halcrow at 10:18 giving Merritt a 2-0 lead. Soquila and Reece Wilcox with the assists. Patrick McGillis who returned to the Vipers lineup after being out since mid October come down the right wing and ripped a hard shot that beat Lino Chimienti but hit the post. The Viper captain would get a second opportunity late in the period with about a minute and a half remaining but Lino Chimienti come up with a nice save. The Vipers would get a late powerplay and capitalize after McGillis with a nice pass setup Vernon product Colton Sparrow at the side of the goal who beat Chimienti at 17:23 cutting the Merritt lead to within a goal. McGillis and Dylan Walchuk with the helpers. Vernon would take a penalty giving the Cents a late powerplay wich was carried over into the 3rd period. A fairly even played period as Merritt had a 2-1 lead after 40 minutes of play. Vernon outshot Merritt 12-11.
3rd Period: The Cents started the third with a short man advantage but a strong penalty kill by the Vipers killed off the minor. Not alot of scoring chances in tonight's game and it showed tonight as the Cents really played a tight checking game not giving Vernon alot of time and space. The Vipers would come very close to tying the game early after Ryan Renz's point shot beat Lino Chimienti but rang off the post. Just before the midway mark Vernon would get their second powerplay of the night but it was the Centennials strong penalty kill wich didnt allow a shot as Merritt killed off the minor. The Vipers who couldnt do much of anything in the 3rd went close to eight minutes without a shot on goal. The Cents just about went up by two after Ryan Renz was beat along the end wall, Jakob Reichert with some good hustle won the battle picked up the puck and caught Kirby Halcrow napping as Reichert went in all along in front and tried sliding the puck through a sleeping Halcrow who was just standing their but somehow the puck didnt get through as Halcrow and Renz both cleared the front of the crease on a bizzare play. The Vipers who couldnt generate any offence were playing more one on one and not as a team as the Vipers with several poor passes or missed passes made for some sloppy hockey. Late in the game the Vipers and Cents would both take minors giving Merritt a short powerplay before Vernon would get a short powerplay wity neither team capitalizing. In the final few minutes the Vipers tried getting Kirby Halcrow to the bench for the extra attacker but a strong forecheck and defensive play by the Cents clogged up any real room as Vernon once again struggled to find any kind of offence. The Vipers would finally get Halcrow to the bench with about 1:20 remaining before a blocked shot allowed Regan Soquila to hit the empty cage giving Merritt a 3-1 lead at 19:29 Billy Marshall with the lone assist on the play. With Halcrow still on the bench Brandon Bruce with a chance to hit the empty net was tied-hel up at the last second and couldnt get off a shot as the Centennials who played a very greasy road game come away with a big 3-1 victory. Vernon outshot Merritt 11-9.
Top Players: (Vernon)
Sean Robertson played a pretty good defensive game on the Vipers blueline.
Riley Hunt who didnt see alot of icetime down the stretch played with and showed alot of hustle and energy to start the game.
Game Thoughts: (Vernon)
The Vipers who now have lost three straight have just five wins in their last nineteen games see their season slipping away. Just like last night the Vipers come out with alot of jump-energy played physical and looked good early but wernt the same team as the game went on. For a team that is out of a playoff spot and fighting for a playoff spot I just dont see that desperation, this team is very uncosistant and has troubles playing a full sixty minutes. I just didnt see no urgency for a team that is out of a playoff spot. Tonight they had all kinds of trouble generating offence, and at times looked disorganized. Peter McMullen who was scratched tonight is no longer listed on the teams roster, was he released or traded? I dont know. With the BCHL trade deadline Tuesday it will be interesting to see if the Vipers make any moves. Great to see Patrick McGillis return to the lineup, McGillis who has missed most of the season looked good in the second period but will need some time to get his game going.
Top Players: (Merritt)
Billy Marshall (1 assist) I thought played very well on the Centennials blueline. Marshall wasnt afraid to carry the puck and jump up into the play. A bigger kid that played very well defensively.
Dylan Chanter (1 goal) Also played very well on the Cents backend.
Regan Soquila (1 goal & 1 assist) Played a strong game for the Centennials. A strong skater looked good with the puck.
Brandon Bruce (1 assist) I thought played fairly well.
Brendan Lamont (1 goal) Also played fairly well for Merritt, had a few chances tonight.
Brandon Pfeil was another Merritt d-man that played very well tonight. Very steady on the Cents backend.
Lino Chimienti (35 saves) Played well between the pipes for the Cents. Didnt see alot of action in periods one and three but made some key saves in the 2nd period where the Vipers come up with most of their opportunities. This kid dosnt give up alot of rebounds and plays his position well.
Game Thoughts: (Merritt)
Luke Pierce has this team playing its best hockey in a very long time. This Centennials team cant be taken lightly, this is a very hard working club that dosnt give you alot of time and space, plays a tight checking game and battles and competes hard every shift. Merritt won most of the races and battles for the pucks tonight, were very relentless on the forecheck and one on one battles. Merritt come up with a greasy road win over a Vipers team that is struggling. Not alot of scoring chances through out tonight's game. Merritt didnt really generate alot of scoring chances either but worked hard all night, battled and won the battles as well as capitalized on their chances. Overall not a very exciting game.
Scratches:
Vernon:
Peter McMullen
Luke Juha (Injured)
John Knisley (Injured)
Ben Gamache (Injured)
Merritt:
Sean Maktaak
3 Stars:
1st Star: Lino Chimienti (35 saves)
2nd Star: Regan Soquila (1 goal & 1 assist)
3rd Star: Kirby Halcrow (32 saves)
For more on tonight's game visit the boxscore,
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977553&link=bchl
Nicole Kidman & Keith Urban Attend Vipers Game:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wwfFdoeYZKI&feature=youtu.be&hd=1
(Game Preview) Merritt @ Vernon:
Tonight is the fourth of eight regular season meetings between these two teams.
Let's take a look at the regular season schedule between these two hockey clubs,
Saturday, October 8th Vernon @ Merritt (Vipers won 3-2 in double overtime)
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977748
Friday, December 2nd Merritt @ Vernon 4-4 Tie)
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977547
Saturday, December 3rd Vernon @ Merritt
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977760&link=bchl
Saturday, January 7th Merritt @ Vernon
Friday, January 13th Vernon @ Merritt
Friday, February 3rd Merritt @ Vernon
Friday, February 10th Merritt @ Vernon
Tuesday, February 14th Vernon @ Merritt
Last Game Played:
Friday, January 6th Victoria defeated Vernon 4-3
Friday, January 6th Merritt defeated Salmon Arm 7-4
Next Game:
Friday, January 13th Vernon @ Merritt
Since the 2002-03 season Vernon is 47-7-1-6 vs. Merritt
Since the 2002-03 season Vernon has outscored Merritt 270-141
Since the 2003-04 season Vernon is 20-2-1-3 at home vs. Merritt
Since the 2003-04 season Vernon is 21-2-0-4 in Merritt
The Vipers are 7-0-1-2 in their last ten games at home vs. the Centennials
The Vipers are 8-1-0-1 in their last ten games on the road vs. the Centennials
The Vipers are 6-1-1-2 in their last ten games vs. Merritt
The Vipers are 21-1-1-2 in their last 25 games vs Merritt
The Vipers last loss in Merritt was a 2-0 loss back on Saturday, December 3rd 2011
The Centennials last win in Vernon was a 3-2 overtime victory back on Friday, February 11th 2011
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: 987
Wins: 629
Losses: 258
Ties: 16
Overtime Losses: 86
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
The Vipers come into tonight's game riding a two game losing streak and just five wins in their last eighteen games. Vernon who has struggled needs wins fighting for a playoff spot, sits three points back of 4th place Chilliwack and six points back of 3rd place Prince George. Vernon plays five of their next seven on home ice and will face the Centennials in a re-match next weekend in Merritt in a crucial home and home series.
Lets take a look at the Vernon Vipers:
Games Played: 35
Wins: 17
Losses: 15
Ties: 1
Overtime Losses: 2
Home Record: 11-4-1-1
Road Record: 6-11-0-1
Goals For: 123
Goals Against: 115
Streak: Two game losing streak
Standings: 5th Place
Vernon Vipers Returning Players:
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:
Marcus Basara (93)
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 this season:
0-0-1-0
Vernon's Road record vs. Merritt this season:
1-1-0-0
Vernon’s Powerplay vs. Merritt this season:
1-10
Vernon’s scoring leaders vs. Merritt this season:
Darren Nowick (4-2-6)
Michael Zalewski (1-4-5)
John Knisley (0-1-1)
Luke Juha (0-1-1)
Jedd Soleway (0-1-1)
Brett Corkey (0-1-1)
Max Mowat (0-1-1)
Adam Tambellini (1-0-1)
Aaron Hadley (0-1-1)
Ryan Renz (0-1-1)
Kirby Halcrow (1-1-1-0 Record)
Key’s and Notes to tonight’s game:
-Vernon has the leagues 3rd best powerplay
-The Vipers have the BCHL's 11th best penalty kill
-Danny Todosychuk (4-1 Record, 2.68 GAA) is in the top ten goaltenders
-Darren Nowick (25-17-42) & Mike Zalewski (19-26-45) are the lone two Vipers in the leagues top twenty in scoring
For more on tonight's game and the Merritt Centennials, please visit Alex Grebenyuk's Cents Central blog,
http://centscentral.blogspot.com/
The Centennials who are having their best season in several years will finish up a three game road trip tonight vs the Vipers before returning home for four straight. The Cents have won two straight and sit just four points up on 3rd place Prince George. Former Vernon Vipers Luke Peirce and Tyler Steel will once again face their former teams.
Lets take a look at the Merritt Centennials:
Games Played: 37
Wins: 20
Losses: 10
Ties: 2
Overtime Losses: 5
Home Record: 10-4-0-4
Road Record: 10-6-2-1
Goals For: 117
Goals Against: 116
Standings: 2nd 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)
Jakob Reichert (93)
Regan Soquila (93)
Evan Stack (91)
Reece Willcox (94)
Lino Chimienti (91)
Tyler Steel (93)
Departing & traded players from last years team:
David Sabey (91)
Richard Sabourin (92)
Stephen Wall (91)
Dylan Playfair (92)
Kameran Crawford (91)
Max Vallis (91)
Jeff Jones (91)
Blaine Bokenfohr (90)
Steve Tresierra (90)
Brett Kolins (92)
At Home this season vs. Vernon:
1-0-0-1
On The Road this season vs. Vernon:
0-0-1-0
Merritt’s Powerplay vs. Vernon this season:
1-16
Merritt’s scoring leaders vs. Vernon this season:
Sean Maktaak (2-1-3)
Dustin Lebrun (1-1-2)
Chad Brears (2-0-2)
Reece Willcox (1-1-2)
Evan Stack (1-1-2)
Brent Fletcher (0-1-1)
Payton Schaefer (0-1-1)
Regan Soquila (0-1-1)
Brandon Bruce (0-1-1)
Dustin Lebrun (1-0-1)
Billy Marshall (0-1-1)
Lino Chimienti (0-1-1-0 Record)
Tyler Steel (1-0 Record)
Key’s and Notes to tonight’s game:
-Merritt has the leagues 9th best powerplay
-The Cents have the BCHL's 10th best penalty kill
-Former Merritt Centennial and Vernon Vipers forward, Luke Pierce faces his former team
-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
-Regan Soquila (11-36-47) is the lone Centennial in the league's top twenty in scoring
-Tyler Steel (9-7-1 Record, 2 Shutouts, 2.87 GAA) is in the league's top ten goaltenders
Here's a look at both teams rosters:
Vernon Vipers:
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/stats_1team.cfm?leagueID=2393&clientID=1413&teamid=224096
Merritt Centennials:
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/stats_1team.cfm?leagueID=2393&clientID=1413&teamid=224100
Rockafellow Frustrates Vipers:
This is posted on the Vipers website:
Rockafellow frustrates Vipers
by Don Klepp | Added 2012-01-07
Mike Zalewski had a strong game.
After dominating the Victoria Grizzlies in the first period, the Vipers relaxed in the second period and the Grizzlies took advantage, en route to a 4-3 road win.
Maybe it was the presence of Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban in the crowd. Perhaps it was simply Viper overconfidence after the home team out shot the Grizzlies 17-7 in the opening 20 minutes. Or perhaps the Grizzlies had recovered from their day long bus ride to Vernon.
Whatever the reason, Victoria stormed back in the middle frame to overcome a 2-1 deficit and take a 3-2 lead.
At 8:14 of the second period, while the Grizzlies enjoyed a two-man advantage, Wesley Myron’s one-timed slap shot tied the game. Then at 13:29, affiliated player Dayne Ellison got a loose puck past Viper goalie Kirby Halcrow after a rush had broken down in the Viper zone.
The Grizzlies deserved full credit for the lead because they competed harder than the Vipers and mounted a series of counter attacks when Viper offensive forays broke down.
After the Ellison goal, Jason Williamson called a Viper timeout that led to improved Viper commitment. Their improved play led to Aaron Hadley’s tying goal at 18:23. Hadley established a worrying presence at the edge of the Victoria crease and Mike Zalewski’s centering pass appeared to deflect off the big Viper winger.
Zalewski had a strong game for the Vipers as he figured in all three of his team’s goals. He got the Vipers rolling with a power play goal at 3:36 of the first period. Stationed in the right faceoff circle, he converted Brett Corkey’s diagonal pass with a one-timer.
He then set up Darren Nowick’s power play marker at 13:10, with Corkey drawing another assist. Nowick’s quick wrister went through Rockafellow’s pads.
In between the Viper goals, the Grizzlies notched a special team goal of their own. Viper castoff Jarryd Ten Vaanholt popped in a rebound after Aaron Hadley had taken an unsportsmanlike penalty.
The Vipers might well have scored five goals in that opening period, but Garrett Rockafellow was brilliant in the Victoria net. Then, with the score tied, he put on a show in the third period as the Vipers created chance after chance. His best save came against Adam Tambellini, who had an open net and plenty of time to put the Vipers ahead. In desperation, Rockafellow dived across the crease and smothered Tambellini’s rising shot.
Soon after, Wesley Myron blocked a Max Mowat pass at the Victoria blue line, which sent Alex Holland and Mike Moran down the ice with one Viper defender back. After Kirby Halcrow blocked Holland’s close-in shot, Moran bundled in the rebound at 15:11.
The Vipers subsequently created chances to tie the contest, but Rockafellow turned in a performance that left the Vipers and their 1999 fans shaking their heads.
The only negative for the Grizzlies in this contest was a knee injury that sidelined Jarryd Ten Vaanholt in the first period.
Rockafellow frustrates Vipers
by Don Klepp | Added 2012-01-07
Mike Zalewski had a strong game.
After dominating the Victoria Grizzlies in the first period, the Vipers relaxed in the second period and the Grizzlies took advantage, en route to a 4-3 road win.
Maybe it was the presence of Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban in the crowd. Perhaps it was simply Viper overconfidence after the home team out shot the Grizzlies 17-7 in the opening 20 minutes. Or perhaps the Grizzlies had recovered from their day long bus ride to Vernon.
Whatever the reason, Victoria stormed back in the middle frame to overcome a 2-1 deficit and take a 3-2 lead.
At 8:14 of the second period, while the Grizzlies enjoyed a two-man advantage, Wesley Myron’s one-timed slap shot tied the game. Then at 13:29, affiliated player Dayne Ellison got a loose puck past Viper goalie Kirby Halcrow after a rush had broken down in the Viper zone.
The Grizzlies deserved full credit for the lead because they competed harder than the Vipers and mounted a series of counter attacks when Viper offensive forays broke down.
After the Ellison goal, Jason Williamson called a Viper timeout that led to improved Viper commitment. Their improved play led to Aaron Hadley’s tying goal at 18:23. Hadley established a worrying presence at the edge of the Victoria crease and Mike Zalewski’s centering pass appeared to deflect off the big Viper winger.
Zalewski had a strong game for the Vipers as he figured in all three of his team’s goals. He got the Vipers rolling with a power play goal at 3:36 of the first period. Stationed in the right faceoff circle, he converted Brett Corkey’s diagonal pass with a one-timer.
He then set up Darren Nowick’s power play marker at 13:10, with Corkey drawing another assist. Nowick’s quick wrister went through Rockafellow’s pads.
In between the Viper goals, the Grizzlies notched a special team goal of their own. Viper castoff Jarryd Ten Vaanholt popped in a rebound after Aaron Hadley had taken an unsportsmanlike penalty.
The Vipers might well have scored five goals in that opening period, but Garrett Rockafellow was brilliant in the Victoria net. Then, with the score tied, he put on a show in the third period as the Vipers created chance after chance. His best save came against Adam Tambellini, who had an open net and plenty of time to put the Vipers ahead. In desperation, Rockafellow dived across the crease and smothered Tambellini’s rising shot.
Soon after, Wesley Myron blocked a Max Mowat pass at the Victoria blue line, which sent Alex Holland and Mike Moran down the ice with one Viper defender back. After Kirby Halcrow blocked Holland’s close-in shot, Moran bundled in the rebound at 15:11.
The Vipers subsequently created chances to tie the contest, but Rockafellow turned in a performance that left the Vipers and their 1999 fans shaking their heads.
The only negative for the Grizzlies in this contest was a knee injury that sidelined Jarryd Ten Vaanholt in the first period.
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