West Kelowna 7 Vernon 1

For anyone who could not attend or watch tonight’s Vipers game here are my thoughts and views from tonight’s game. You may agree or disagree but we all have our own view and opinion on any game we watch. This is my opinion and my thoughts on how I saw tonight’s game. I try to be unbiased and give a fare recap on both sides. Thanks for stopping by & visiting my blog.

I was at tonight's BCHL game as West Kelowna defeated Vernon 7-1 in front of 1,018 fans at Royal Le Page Place.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon:  Danny Todosychuk
West Kelowna:  Tyler Briggs

1st Period:  Off the opening faceoff Ryan Renz was caught way inside the Warriors blueline giving up the two on one as Seb Lloyd & Brennan Clark went in before Clark dished off to Lloyd who went in for the breakaway beating Danny Todosychuk fivehole on the Warriors first shot just twenty nine seconds into the hockey game.  Clark with the lone assist.  Off the next faceoff and just twenty seconds later Colton Sparrow setup Adam Tambellini on a odd man rush who beat Tyler Briggs tying the game at :49 seconds.  Sparrow with the only helper on the goal.  Two minutes later Braeden Russell setup Liam Board on a odd man rush but it was Briggs who come up with the nice save off Board.  West Kelowna come right back after Matt Anholt stole the puck from Ryan Renz before being stopped in the slot by Danny Todosychuk.  The Warriors with some good pressure deep in the Vipers zone took a 2-1 lead after former Vernon Vipers forward Marcus Basara setup Seb Lloyd for his second of the night at 3:30 Basara with the lone assist.  West Kelowna was the better of the two teams early and often carrying the better of the play.  Brennan Clark and Jetlan Houcher on a two on one was stopped by Todosychuk.  Vernon would get the games first powerplay but with no real scoring opportunities the Warriors killed off the minor.  Just as the penalty expired a shot from the side of the net went through the Warriors crease and out the other side on a close call.  Jedd Soleway took a stick or elbow to the chops and had to get some repairs done on the Vipers bench but stayed in the game.  West Kelowna carried the edge in play and was the better of the two teams in the first half.  The Vipers did play a little better early in the second half getting some pressure and carried the edge in play but didnt get any real good scoring chances before the Warriors would get back to back powerplays and blow the game wide open before the end of the first period.  David Pope setup Adam Plant who walked in from the slot beat Todosychuk giving West Kelowna a 3-1 lead at 16:50 with Pope and former Salmon Arm Silverbacks d-man Josh Monk collecting the assists.  On the second man advantage Vernon had two chances to clear the zone but didnt and it cost them after Seb Lloyd scored his third of the game giving the Warriors a 4-1 lead at 18:39 Adam Plant & Josh Monk picked up the helpers.  This was the end of the night for Danny Todosychuk who gave up four goals on thirteen shots as Austin Smith sporting his new goal equipment replaced Todosychuk in the final minute and a half.  The Warriors were the better of the two teams and outplayed the Vipers for most of the period.  West Kelowna was up 4-1 after 20 minutes of play.  The Warriors outshot the Vipers 13-8.

2nd Period:  Just twenty two seconds into the middle frame West Kelowna went on their third powerplay of the game and capitalized.  Moving the puck around the Warriors setup David Pope for a wide open net but it was Austin Smith who somehow come across his crease diving to rob Pope with a huge glove save leaving Pope shaking his head.  Pope would get the last laugh on the next shift the Warriors moved the puck around setting up Pope who beat Smith from the slot giving West Kelowna a 5-1 lead at 1:14 Seb lloyd and Adam Plant picked up the helpers.  Off the next faceoff the Warriors come right back and just about went up 6-1 after ringing a quick shot off the post.  A few minutes later Warriors captain Marcus Basara was stopped by Smith who made another quick glove save.  Brennan Clark left the ice during the 2nd and didnt return.  Atleast I didnt notice him for the remainder of the game.  The Warriors went up 6-1 after Matt Anholt's point shot was stopped by Austin Smith who thought he had it covered under his pads, but with no whistle Shawn Hochhausen went to the net found the loose puck in the crease before tapping the puck into the back of the net at 8:43 Anholt with the only assist on the goal.  Just over three minutes later Matthew Berry setup Ambrose Firkus who put West Kelowna up 7-1 at 12:04 Berry with the only assist.  On the next shift West Kelowna would then get their fourth powerplay of the night but it was the Vipers who had a pretty good penalty kill would kill off the minor.  Just two minutes later a huge scrum formed deep inside the West Kelowna zone with everyone pushing and shoving punches were thrown as everyone had a dancing partner.  In the end the Warriors come out of the scrum with the man advantage after Brendan Persley was given a ten minute misconduct and hit the dressing room.  The Warriors would get a four minute powerplay but unable to capitalize on the first two minutes West Kelowna would take a penalty as both teams played a little four on four late in the period.  The Warriors with three goals in the second put this game out of reach as the Vipers didnt record a single scoring chance this period.  The Warriors took their foot off the gas once they went up 7-1 as both teams kinda coasted for the remainder of the period.  West Kelowna was up 7-1 after 40 minutes of play.  The Warriors outshot the Vipers 20-15.

3rd Period:  The Vipers would get an early chance after Tyler Briggs was forced to make back to back saves off Braeden Russell and Liam Board before the Warriors come right back with an odd man rush.  Devon Hascarl and Brent Lashuk on a two on one but Hascarl was stopped by Austin Smith.  A few shifts later TJ Dumonceaux who returned to the Vipers lineup tonight went in for the breakaway but shot high and over the goal.  West Kelowna would call an early timeout before getting an early powerplay.  Vernon would kill off the minor.  Marc Hetnik had a great chance jumped up into the play and alone behind the net tried beating Tyler Briggs on the wrap around but the Warriors veteran goaltender come up with the big save.  With Vernon on a late man advantage it was the Warriors who come up with a two on one.  Matt Anholt and Brent Lashuk were hauled down as both teams played a little four on four.  With about four minutes remaining the Vipers with lots of traffic in front come up with atleast three or four good opportunities in close but it was Tyler Briggs who was down and out but somehow made three or four big saves.  In the dying ten seconds Logan Mick made a nice move around his defenceman before making another move on Briggs, looking to have the goaltender out of position Mick was unable to get off a shot before the final buzzer went.  The Warriors snapped a three game losing streak with the 7-1 victory.  With the game already over before the period started there wasnt alot of action in the final frame as both teams were just playing out the clock.  Vernon outshot West Kelowna 11-10.

Top Players:  (Vernon)

Adam Tambellini (1 goal)  I thought played hard, skated hard and was one of the Vipers lone bright spots.

Colton Sparrow (1 assist)  I thought also played hard, battled and competed and made atleast three maybe four shot blocks through out tonight's game.

Aaron Hadley who didnt show much of anything from the start of the hockey game really seemed to play with a bit of an edge and looked mean in the final three or four minutes of the 2nd period and into the final period.  Hadley played with some emotion and probally frustration but was hitting anybody in sight.

Game Thoughts:  (Vernon)

Last weekend & this weekend are two big home and home series vs teams the Vipers are trying to catch.  Splitting last weekends home and home series with Penticton the Vipers come into tonight's game-home and home series vs a West Kelowna team that has been struggling as of late.  Riding a three game losing streak and winners of just two games in their last eleven games tonight was a great opportunity for Vernon to make a statement.  So what happens they get blown out 7-1 and dont show up to play.  Ive said it all season, this team is very uncosistant and you just never know what team your going to see from game to game.  Where's the Vipers team that I watched defeat the Vees 2-1 last weekend in Penticton?  Saturday night's 3-1 loss at home to Penticton and tonight's 7-1 loss was not the same team.  This was a very dissapointing game and loss as a fan and should be as the Vipers team-organization.  I didnt see anything positive tonight from the Vipers side, this game was over before the end of the opening period.  You couldnt blame the Vipers goaltenders on any of the seven goals.  Vernon had maybe ten good scoring chances all night as Tyler Briggs didnt see alot of action.  Once again too many mistakes for this time of year.  With tomorrow's BCHL Card Deadline you have to wonder if the Vipers are going to shake things up or stick with this group that cant seem to get the job done.

Top Players:  (West Kelowna)

Seb lloyd (3 goals & 1 assist)  Played a heck of a game tonight.  I remember when West Kelowna played in Vernon back in October Lloyd was the lone Warrior to score that night and really stood out.  Well he played very well tonight.  Saw alot of ice and was always open and in and around the goal.

Adam Plant (1 goal & 2 assists)  Was very solid on the Warriors blueline.  A strong-smooth skater, moves the puck well, reads and sees the ice-play.  Jumps up into the play and makes things happen in a hurry.

David Pope (1 goal & 1 assist)  Played a strong game for West Kelowna.

Shawn Hochhausen (1 goal) Played very well for the Warriors.  Always seems to play well against Vernon.

Brent Lashuk played with alot of jump-energy, was involved in the play, had some chances.

Brennan Clark (1 assist)  I thought made things happen tonight, very involved in the play early.  I saw him leave the ice and the bench in the 2nd period and didnt notice him return for the remainder of the game.

Matt Anholt (1 assist)  Another kid who stood out, created some chances and was involved in the play.

Game Thoughts:  (West Kelowna)

Riding a three game losing streak and just two wins in their last eleven games the West Kelowna Warriors without captain Max French and injured Brett McKinnon made a statement tonight dumping the Vipers 7-1 in the first of three meetings between these two teams within a week.  Give the Warriors credit with some big-key injuries and in a slump they come to play tonight and jumped five points up on Vernon in a big Division game.  I thought West Kelowna's powerplay was very strong.  The Warriors capitalized on their chances and made the Vipers pay off their mistakes-penalties.  The Warriors are quick, move the puck well and show they can find the back of the net.  Up 7-1 the Warriors took their foot off the gas and sat back as both teams didnt really put up much in the final period and a half.  Max French took the warmup but didnt play tonight. 

Scratches:

Vernon:

Michael Roberts
Craig Martin (Injured)

West Kelowna:

Brett McKinnon
Max French

Warriors Energy Player Of The Game:

Brent Lashuk

Three Stars:

1st Star:  Seb Lloyd (3 goals & 1 assist)
2nd Star:  Adam Plant (1 goal & 2 assists)
3rd Star:  Shawn Hochhausen (1 goal)

For more on tonight's game visit the boxscore,

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=1102966&link=bchl

For more on tonight's game & the West Kelowna Warriors visit Jon Zack's West Kelowna Warriors blog,

http://thegeneralsreport.wordpress.com/

(Game Preview) Vernon @ West Kelowna:

Vernon (9-10-0-6) @ West Kelowna (10-7-1-6) 7:00pm start

Tonight is the second of seven meetings between the Vernon Vipers & West Kelowna Warriors.  Vernon leads the season series 1-0.  You can listen to the pre-game show live with Todd Miller starting at 6:45pm on 107.5 Kiss FM

Last Game:

Saturday, November 24th Penticton defeated Vernon 3-1
Saturday, November 24th Coquitlam defetaed West Kelowna 4-2

Next Game:

Saturday, December 1st West Kelowna @ Vernon

Since the 2006-07 regular seasonVernon is 20-15-2-3 vs. West Kelowna

Since the 2006-07 regular season Vernon has outscored West Kelowna 109-106

Since the 2006-07 regular season Vernon is 11-6-1-2 at home vs. West Kelowna

Since the 2006-07 regular season Vernon is 9-9-1-1 in West Kelowna

Since the 2008-09 regular season the Vipers are 7-3-0-0 in their last ten games vs. the Warriors

Since the 2008-09 regular season the Vipers are 6-3-0-1 in their last ten games at Royal Le Page Place

Since the 2008-09 regular season the Vipers are 8-1-1-0 in their last ten games at Wesbild Centre

The Warriors have lost seven straight games at the Wesbild centre

The Vipers have lost three straight games at Royal le Page Place

Vernon's last win at home vs West Kelowna was a 2-1 double overtime win back on Saturday, October 6th 2012

West Kelowna's last regular season victory at the Wesbild Centre was a 3-1 win on Saturday, January 23rd 2010

Vernon's last win at Royal Le Page Place was a 5-2 win back on Saturday, September 24th 2011

West Kelowna's last win at home vs Vernon was a 3-1 win back on Saturday, January 23rd 2010

The Vipers went 5-0-3-0 last season vs the Warriors 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: 1030
Wins: 652
Losses: 274
Ties: 16
Overtime Losses: 92

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:

Tonight is the first game of a home and home series between the Vipers & Warriors as Vernon leads the season series 1-0.  Tonight is also the first of three meetings between these two teams within a week.  The Vipers are coming off a 3-1 loss to the visiting Penticton Vees Saturday night have won two of their last five games make their first regular season visit to Royal le Page Place.  Vernon is tied with Salmon Arm for 4th place sit just three points back of the 3rd place Warriors.

Adam Tambellini (16-15-31) leads the Vipers in goals with sixteen and in points with thirty one

Games Played: 25
Wins: 9
Losses: 10
Ties: 0
Overtime Losses: 6
Home Record: 5-4-0-3
Road Record: 4-6-0-3
Goals For: 66
Goals Against: 69
Streak: One game losing streak
Standings: Tied for 4th Place with Salmon Arm

Vernon Vipers Returning Players:

Brett Corkey (92)
Marc Hetnik (92)
Geoff Crisfield (93)
Aaron Hadley (93)
Danny Todosychuk (94)
Colton Sparrow (93)
Jedd Soleway (94)
Ryan Renz (93)
Adam Tambellini (94)

Vernon Vipers Departing & traded players from last years team:

Michael Zalewski (92)
Brendan Persley (93)
Darren Nowick (91)
Riley Hunt (95)
John Knisley (92)
Colton Cyr (91)
Patrick McGillis (91)
Sean Robertson (91)
Ben Gamache (91)
Max Mowat (93)
Turner Lawson (94)
Kirby Halcrow (91)

Vernons Home record vs. West Kelowna this season:

1-0-0-0

Vernons Road record vs. West Kelowna this season:

0-0-0-0

Vernons Powerplay vs. West Kelowna this season:

0-2

Vernons scoring leaders vs. West Kelowna this season:

Adam Tambellini (1-0-1)
Aaron Hadley (0-1-1)
Pearce Eviston (0-1-1)
Colton Sparrow (1-0-1)
Ryan Renz (0-1-1)

Austin Smith (1-0 Record)

Key’s and Notes to tonight’s game:

-Vernon has the leagues 11th best powerplay

-The Vipers have the BCHL's 15th best penalty kill

Lets take a look at the West Kelowna Warriors:

The Warriors are coming off a 4-2 loss to the visiting Coquitlam Express Saturday enter tonight's game riding a three game losing streak.  West Kelowna has just two wins in their last eleven games.  The Warriors who sit in 3rd place play five of their next six games at home.

Marcus Basara (16-16-32) leads the Warriors in goals with sixteen & in points with thirty two

For more on the West Kelowna Warriors visit Jon Zacks West Kelowna Warriors Blog, http://thegeneralsreport.wordpress.com/

Regular Season:

Games Played: 24
Wins: 10
Losses: 7
Ties: 1
Overtime Losses: 6
Home Record: 6-5-1-2
Road Record: 4-2-0-4
Goals For: 82
Goals Against: 68
Streak: Three game losing streak
Standings: 3rd Place

West Kelowna Warriors Returning Players:

Marcus Basara (93)
Dustin Cave (94)
Brennan Clark (95)
Max French (92)
Devon Hascarl (93)
Shawn Hochhausen (92)
Seb Lloyd (94)
Brett McKinnon (92)
Josh Monk (92)
David Pope (94)
Reid Simmonds (93)

-Former Vernon Lakers forward, Rylan Ferster is the Head Coach-GM of the Warriors

-Forward Marcus Basara faces his former team

West Kelowna Warriors Departing & traded players from last years team:

Connor Dempsey (92)
Travis Blanleil (94)
Dru Morrison (92)
Peter MacIntosh (91)
Ben Betker (94)
Garrett Skrbich (93)
Curtis Toneff (93)
Matthew Berry-Lamontagna (93)
Dwayne Rodrigue (91)
James Leonard (93)

West Kelowna's Home record vs. Vernon this season:

0-0-0-0

West Kelowna's Road record vs. Vernon this season:

0-0-0-1

West Kelowna's Powerplay vs. Vernon this season:

0-1

West Kelowna's scoring leaders vs. Vernon this season:

Seb Lloyd (1-0-1)
David Pope (0-1-1)
Brett Zarazun (0-1-1)

Tyler Briggs (0-1 Record)

Key’s and Notes to tonight’s game:

-West Kelowna has the BCHL's  7th best powerplay

-The Warriors have the league's 3rd best penalty kill

Here's a look at both teams rosters:

Vernon Vipers:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/stats_1team.cfm?leagueID=2393&clientID=1413&teamid=224096

West Kelowna Warriors:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/stats_1team.cfm?leagueID=2393&clientID=1413&teamid=224092

Vipers Send Robin To Powell River:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers send Robin to Powell River

Published: November 30, 2012

Vernon Viper head coach/GM Jason Williamson will be reduced to 25 roster cards by Saturday, and with an extra forward in the fold, somebody had to go.

Landon Robin was the odd man out as Williamson sent him to the Powell River Kings for future considerations in a B.C. Hockey League trade Thursday.

“We recruited him hard, but we’ve got to push forward and live up to our expectations,” said Williamson. “We had some guys come in who played a little bit better.”

Robin, 18, was captain of Saskatchewan’s Beardy’s Midget AAA Blackhawks last season, racking up 50 points (27-23) in 33 games. He struggled early with the Vipers, but appeared to be slowly adjusting to the pace of the BCHL. He has a goal and four assists in 23 games.

With Robin’s departure, Craig Martin (leg) on injured reserve, and TJ Dumonceaux day-to-day, the Vipers have at least 12 forwards available as they begin a weekend home-and-home with the West Kelowna Warriors tonight at Royal LePage Place. Rylan Ferster’s crew visits Wesbild Centre Saturday night.

The Warriors (10-7-1-6) are three points ahead of Vernon (9-10-0-6) in the Interior Division, but are just 2-5-0-1 in their last 10 games. The Snakes have been playing their best hockey in November, going 6-3-0-1 in their last 10.

Veteran d-man Ryan Renz says the Vipers have a lot to build from after earning a weekend split against the league-leading Penticton Vees.

“We took a few strides,” said Renz, a Castlegar product. “Each game we had a chance to win. Penticton’s a tough place to win a hockey game in and when we did, it just brought everyone together.

“In practice, I could tell there’s a lot more excitement on the ice for this weekend after the success we had.

“They (Warriors) haven’t been playing their best, but I’m sure their coach is trying to get the best out of them.”

Vernon has faced West Kelowna just once so far, with Colton Sparrow collecting the OT winner in a 2-1 decision in early October. The teams tangle again Friday, Dec. 7 in West Kelowna.

“We’re going to have quite a few games coming up so this’ll be a good chance to set the tone,” said Renz.

“They don’t happen near as much any more, but any chance you get a home-and-home it builds a rivalry over the weekend. Games are more intense and physical.”

Williamson plans to start Danny Todosychuk tonight.

Meanwhile, the Vees (18-7-0-2) thumped the Salmon Arm SilverBacks 3-0 in the league’s lone Wednesday-night tilt at South Okanagan Events Centre.

Brad McClure, Cam Amantea and Troy Stetcher handled the scoring in front of Chad Katunar, who recorded 27 saves for first star.

Former North Okanagan Junior B Knight Dustin Nikkel stopped all seven shots in relief of Salmon Arm starter Adam Clark, who had 13 saves on 16 shots. The ‘Backs dipped to 10-12-1-3.

League Clarifies Deadlines, Penalties Surrounding Dec. 1 Roster Cutoff:

This is posted on the BCHL website:

League clarifies deadlines, penalties surrounding Dec. 1 roster cutoff
 
Thursday, November 29, 2012 - Submitted by BCHL Media

With the Hockey Canada roster deadline on Saturday Dec. 1 potentially leading to a number of player transactions, the British Columbia Hockey League is clarifying its policy on trade reporting at deadline time.

For any transaction made after 11:59 p.m. PST on Friday, Nov. 30, BCHL team personnel are required to wait until 10 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 2 to release details. Only after that time are they permitted to discuss transactions with media.

The absolute Dec. 1 deadline for transactions between separate leagues (i.e. BCHL to AJHL), is 6 p.m. Pacific. For moves made within the BCHL, the absolute deadline is 8 p.m. Pacific.

Teams not in compliance with this league regulation are subject to a fine.

Trade information will be also be posted on the BCHL website at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 2.

The Dec. 1 deadline reduces the number of player cards available to all Canadian Junior A hockey clubs to 25. As BCHL active rosters are capped at 22 players, each team would have a maximum of three cards to use to sign new players for the rest of the season.

Vernon-Powell River Trade:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Robin Traded to Powell River
 
Thursday, November 29, 2012 - Submitted by Vipers Staff

The Vernon Vipers have traded forward Landon Robin to the Powell River Kings in exchange for future considerations.

With the December 1st carding deadline fast approaching the Vipers had 15 forwards 6 defenceman and two goaltenders on the roster and were forced to make a roster move in order to get down to 22 players.

The Vipers would like to thank Landon for his contribution to the hockey club and the community and wish him the best of luck in the future.

For more information please contact the Viper Office at 250-542-6022

Former Vipers Collins & Noonan Named Hockey East Weekly Top Performers:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Mike Collins & former Vernon Vipers defencemen Garrett Noonan are both one of twenty players that have been named this week's Hockey East weekly top performers.

Mike Collins scored his team-best seventh goal of the season in a 1-1 tie with Colgate.  Collins played two season's in Vernon (2008-2010) In 119 regular season games with the Vipers Collins recorded (55-71-126)

Mike Collins Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=122117

Garrett Noonan recorded an assist, two blocked shots and a +3 rating in BU's 4-0 win over St. Lawrence on Saturday.  Noonan was drafted by the Nashville Predators in round 4 #112 overall in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. Noonan played one season in Vernon (2009-2010) collecting (2-16-18) in 58 regular season games with the Vipers.

Garrett Noonan's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=48219

Americans Sign Former Vipers Goaltender Lee-Knight:

The WHL Tri-City Americans have signed former Vernon Vipers tryout goaltender Luke Lee-Knight.  Lee-Knight was invited to the Americans Training camp this year before being reassigned. In two pre-season games with the Americans Lee-Knight went 0-1 with a 5.98 GAA.  Lee-Knight then signed with the SJHL Humboldt Broncos in October before going back to the Western Hockey League Americans.  In five games with the Broncos Lee-Knight went 4-1 with two shutouts and a 2.56 GAA.   Lee-Knight attended the Vernon Vipers Training camp last year before being released-cut. Lee-Knight played last season with the WHL Spokane Chiefs and Prince Albert Raiders.

Luke Lee-Knight's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=145164

This is posted on the Americans website:

Fiebelkorn Leaves Team; Lee-Knight Rejoins Club from Humboldt

Nov 12, 2012

Kennewick, WA – Tri-City Americans Governor/General Manager Bob Tory announced today that 18-year-old goaltender Brenden Fiebelkorn has opted to leave the club for personal reasons.  Additionally, Tory announced that 19-year-old goaltender Luke Lee-Knight will join the club immediately.

Fiebelkorn, a 6’1, 185-pound netminder from Winnipeg, Manitoba, appeared in two games this season, picking up his first WHL win on November 4 vs. Vancouver.  Fiebelkorn has played in three WHL games in his career, making his WHL debut in a relief appearance back during the 2010-11 season while a member of the Prince Albert Raiders.

Lee-Knight, meanwhile, rejoins the WHL club he started training camp with from the Humboldt Broncos of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League.  The 6’2, 195-pound goaltender from Calgary, Alberta appeared in 5 games with the Broncos, going 4-1 with a 2.56 goals against average, 0.924 save percentage and 2 shutouts.  Lee-Knight spent last season between the Prince Albert Raiders and the Spokane Chiefs, appearing in 22 games and collecting a 2-4-2-1 record along with a 4.82 goals against average and a 0.841 save percentage.

In an unrelated move, Tory also announced today that 15-year-old goaltender Evan Sarthou will join the club this week for practice while Eric Comrie is away with Team WHL at the Subway Super Series.  Sarthou was the Americans’ third round draft pick (65th overall) at the 2012 Bantam Draft and was signed by the club in late August.  The Black Diamond, Washington-native is currently playing with the L.A. Jr. Kings of the Tier 1 AAA Elite Hockey League, going 7-2 in 9 games played, along with compiling a 2.31 goals against average, a 0.900 save percentage and 3 shutouts.

Comrie and Team WHL will play host to Team Russia on Wednesday, November 14 in Vancouver, B.C. and on Thursday, November 15 in Victoria, B.C.  Currently, Team Russia is 2-1 in the Subway Super Series, splitting the two games against Team QMJHL and taking the first of two games against the OHL.  Game 2 vs. Team OHL and game 4 of the 6-game series is tonight in Sarnia, Ontario.  Comrie is the sixth Tri-City Americans player to compete with Team WHL at this event and the third goaltender to be chosen.  He joins former Tri-City players Brendan Shinnimin, Chet Pickard, Carey Price, Logan Stephenson and Shawn Belle as participants in the series.

This is in the Tri-City Herald Newspaper:

Goalie Lee-Knight rejoins Americans

Published: November 14, 2012

By Annie Fowler

Luke Lee-Knight was crushed when he was released by the Tri-City Americans just days before the season opener.

The veteran goalie, who has spent time with Prince Albert and Spokane last year, opened the season at the Americans’ training camp as a free agent, fighting for the backup job behind Eric Comrie with Brenden Fiebelkorn, 18.

In the end, Tri-City opted for Fiebelkorn, who was a year younger.

“There weren’t too many hard feelings,” Lee-Knight said of his dismissal in September. “Going back was hard at first, but I think it boosted my confidence. I got a call last Wednesday asking if I would come back. I was in a pretty good spot with my Junior A team and playing a lot. But this is a pretty special opportunity, and I jumped at it. I like the guys here a lot, and that motivated me to come back.”

Fiebelkorn, a native of Winnipeg, Manitoba, appeared in just two games before he left the team after last Saturday’s game against Kamloops, citing personal reasons.

Fiebelkorn won his only start — 9-1 against Vancouver on Nov. 4.

Lee-Knight had been playing with the Humboldt Broncos of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League. The native of Calgary, Alberta, was 4-1 with the Broncos with a 2.56 goals against average, a .924 save percentage and two shutouts.

Lee-Knight got to Kennewick on Monday, while 15-year-old goalie Evan Sarthou arrived Sunday to help out at practice while Comrie is at the Subway Super Series with Team WHL.

“I’ve been enjoying it,” said Sarthou, who leaves today. “Just the opportunity to come up and practice with everyone was worth the trip. It’s a lot quicker here, and you have to be quicker to get in position to make saves. The shots are better and the compete level is pretty high.”

Sarthou, who plays for the L.A. Jr. Kings, missed one game with his team, but he said they were in good hands while he was gone. Like Fiebelkorn, Lee-Knight knows he will have to pay his dues to earn ice time.

“This is a business where nothing is promised,” Lee-Knight said. “You control your own destiny. Eric is a great goalie. He can go a lot of the work, but I want to be able to push him and get a lot of work myself. I want to help the team win a championship.”

Former Vipers Defenceman Weinstein Named Atlantic Hockey's Player Of The Week:

Former Vernon Vipers defenceman Steve Weinstein was named Atlantic Hockey Player of the week Monday.  Weinstein is in his second season with the Bentley Falcons played three seasons in Vernon (2008-2011) collecting (10-49-59) in 153 regular season games.

Steve Weinstein's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=119315

This is posted on the Falcons website:

Weinstein Named Player of the Week; Gladiuk Takes Rookie Honors

November 26, 2012

WALTHAM, Mass. – Atlantic Hockey announced on Monday that Bentley University's sophomore defenseman Steve Weinstein (Los Angeles, Calif./Vernon Vipers) was named the conference's Travel Team USA Player of the Week. The conference also announced that Andrew Gladiuk (White Rock, British Columbia/Nanaimo Clippers) was chosen as the Rookie of the Week for the second time this season.

Weinstein and Gladiuk each had four points over the weekend during Bentley's two-game split with Mercyhurst. Weinstein had one goal and three assists, and Gladiuk had two goals and two assists.

Weinstein is the first defenseman this season to win the AHA Player of the Week award, and is the second Falcon in three weeks to earn the award after Brett Gensler (St. Charles, Mo./Youngstown Phantoms) won it Nov. 19.

He had three assists in Saturday's 5-1 win, assisting on three straight power play goals. In Friday's 4-3 overtime defeat to the Lakers, he scored the tying goal with 29 seconds left in regulation with Bentley on a 6-on-4 advantage.

Weinstein leads all Division I defensemen in points per game (1.27), and is 18th in points per game overall. He's second on the team in total points with 14 (5 goals, 9 assists).

Gladiuk had two goals in Saturday's win, scoring Bentley's second and third goals of the game, and notched two assists in Friday's game. He's now tied for the team lead in goals with Gensler (8), and is fifth on the squad in points (12). Nationally, Gladiuk is fourth in points per game among rookies (1.09).

Gladiuk, who previously won the Rookie of the Week award Oct. 29, is the second straight Falcon to claim this award after defenseman Matt Blomquist (Blaine, Minn./Coulee Region Chill) won it last week.

Bentley is now 6-5-0 overall and 5-3-0 in Atlantic Hockey, good for third place with 10 points. They play Army at home Thursday night before facing Dartmouth on the road Saturday night.

League Suspends Former Vipers Defenceman Keca:

The BCHL has suspended former Vernon Vipers tryout defenceman Marley Keca for three games for a game misconduct assessed at the end of Friday's loss to the Salmon Arm SilverBacks. Keca is in his second season with the Trail Smoke Eaters.  Keca attended the Vipers 2009 & 2010 Training camps before being released.  Keca has also played with Quesnel, Alberni Valley & Trail the last five seasons.

Marley Keca's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=48213

This is posted on Chris Wahl's Trail Smoke Eaters Blog:

Bits & Bites:  The BCHL has handed Marley Keca a three-game suspension for a game misconduct assessed at the end of Friday's loss to the SilverBacks. Keca served the first game Saturday and is eligible to return Sunday in Chilliwack.

Vees Collect Split With 3-1 Win:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vees collect split with 3-1 win

Published: November 26, 2012

Graeme Corbett

Morning Star Staff

Plenty of chirping, a decent scrap, emotions red-lining and a playoff vibe – the second leg of a home-and-home set between the Vernon Vipers and Penticton Vees had it all Saturday night.

After dropping the opening B.C. Hockey League tilt the night before, the Vees rebounded with a workmanlike effort to secure a split with a 3-1 win in front of 2,000 fans at Wesbild Centre.

The result puts Penticton (17-7-0-2) back into a two-way tie for first overall with the Chilliwack Chiefs (17-6-1-1). Vernon is fifth in the Interior at 9-10-0-6.

“Both games were playoff-style hockey games,” said Vees’ head coach Fred Harbinson. “You’ve got to give Vernon credit – they came into our building and found a way to win. I give our guys credit for finding a way to win in another tough place in the BCHL.”

With Viper newcomer Liam Board serving a hooking minor, the Vees’ Sam Mellor (7th goal) fired the winner on a late first-period powerplay.

“It was just a knuckle puck from the point and it found a way in,” said Mellor, named first star. “I was pretty pumped about it.

“We thought we deserved the win (Friday). We thought we outplayed them a little, so it was good to come back here and rebound.”

Mellor left the NCAA Alaska-Anchorage Seawolves after one season to return to Junior A. He has since recommitted to the Western Michigan Broncos.

The former Trail Smoke Eater credited Penticton’s line of Cody Depourcq, Travis Blanleil and Cam Amantea for hounding Vernon’s No. 1 unit – Pearce Eviston, Adam Tambellini and Logan Mick – all weekend.

Eviston must have noticed their presence too, as he gave Depourcq a face full of mitt right in front on the Penticton bench behind the play.

“You go at it a few times with them and the emotions are pretty high there,” said the 20-year-old Vancouver product.

“You start to despise the guys on the other team when you play two games in a row.”

Depourcq’s unit generated the Vees’ first goal as Amantea (3rd) used a slick top-shelf finish over Austin Smith’s glove after Tambellini (18th) had given Vernon the lead on the Vipers’ first and only man advantage of the game.

Penticton defender Sean Flanagan showed great hands and patience to find Amantea in the slot.

Tambellini’s goal came midway through the first period when his quick release from the top of the right circle deflected off a shin pad to beat Chad Katunar (28 saves).

Katunar had denied Tambellini on a backhand from in close in the opening minute.

“We got a couple big saves early in the game and it was a good push back after we gave up that powerplay goal,” said Harbinson.

“We talked about putting the puck in areas we could get to it first and we did a better job on our forecheck tonight than (Friday). We were pretty efficient tonight.”

The Vees sealed the win with Brad McClure’s 15th of the season. The Stratford, Ont. native took a drop pass from Mellor and beat Smith (29 saves) blocker side with four minutes to play.

See WARRIOR on B3

Continued from B1

“We had a few breakdowns on the third goal,” said Vipers’ assistant coach Dave Robinson. “A few guys were trying to leave the zone (after the faceoff).”

Robinson liked the Vipers’ overall effort but said they needed to do more to stifle Penticton’s talent.

“We have to take the game to them because they’re so skilled,” he said. “They’ve got team speed and they’ll take advantage of you if you’re sitting back.

“Even though we lost tonight, I think it’s a confidence booster. First-place team and we go in there and take two points from them. It’s definitely something to build off.”

Brendan Persley and James De Haas dropped the mitts in a spirited bout late in the second frame. Persley opened with a couple of hard rights to the button, but De Hass came right back with a flurry of his own to earn a draw.

Vernon opens another home-and-home with the West Kelowna Warriors (10-7-1-6) Friday night at Royal LePage Place. Rylan Ferster’s squad visits Wesbild Saturday.

SNAKE BITES: The Vipers are 6-3-0-1 in their last 10 games. The Warriors are 2-5-1-2...Just four points separate sixth place (Trail, 23) and third (West Kelowna, 27)...Vernon’s powerplay has steadily risen in recent weeks and is now 10th in the league at 18.75 per cent. Penticton’s is third-last at 17.09 per cent...Former Viper Steven Weinstein, now with the NCAA Bentley Falcons, is Player of the Week in the Atlantic Hockey Association. Weinstein had a goal and three assists as Bentley split a pair of games against Mercyhurst. The Los Angeles native had all three helpers in Saturday’s 5-1 Falcons win. He now leads all NCAA  d-men with 14 points.

Former Vipers Goaltender Darren Hogg Is Movember Finalist:

Former Vernon Vipers tryout goaltender Darren Hogg is a finalist for Breakfast Television's $1,000 Movember prize.  Hogg signed with the Langley Rivermen this season after playing last season with the KIJHL Osoyoos Coyotes & one game with the Westside Warriors. Hogg attended the 2011-12 Vernon Vipers Training camp before being released.

Darren Hogg's Player Profile:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=339738&playerID=823436&pos=G

This is posted on the BCHL website:

Rivermen 'tender Hogg is a Mo Finalist!
 
Tuesday, November 27, 2012 - Submitted by BCHL Media

Langley Rivermen goalie Darren Hogg is a finalist for Breakfast Television's $1,000 Movember prize.

To vote, send an email with subject 'Movember' and help Darren win!

(voting closes at MIDNIGHT tonight, Tuesday, Nov. 27)

Send votes to:

contests@btvancouver.ca

Former Vernon Lakers Captain Starts Season With Bright Outlook:

Former Vernon Lakers captain & current Head Coach-GM of the CHL Tulsa Oilers Bruce Ramsay has a bright outlook on this years Oilers team.  Ramsay is in his fourth season with the Tulsa Oilers going 98-92-2 The Oilers sit tied for seventh in the Berry Conference with Forth Worth & Missouri.  Ramsay played one season in Vernon helping the 1989-90 Vernon Lakers win their first Centennial Cup in a thrilling 6-5 overtime win over the highly favorite New Westminster Royals.

Bruce Ramsay's Player-Coaching Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=6007

This is posted on the Oilers website:

Oilers Start Season With Bright Outlook

11-19-2012

By GLENN HIBDON

GTR Sports Writer

With more experience and talent than ever before, Tulsa Oilers coach Bruce Ramsay enters the 2012-13 Central Hockey League season with unbridled enthusiasm. Beginning his fourth season with the Oilers, Ramsay said he’s never had a brighter outlook coming out of training camp.

“Last year we had a lot of rookies, a lot of big question marks going into the season. This year we’ve got guys who have a proven past in professional hockey,’’ says Ramsay, whose team won both preseason games for the first time. “We haven’t had this much skill in quite a few years. Even the Chad Costello and Jack Combs team didn’t turn it on until the middle of the season.

“Ben Gordon, David Beauregard and Ryan Menei are proven scorers and Gordon and Menei are two elite players who should be at the top of CHL scoring. Beauregard is in great shape and ready to play a leadership role. He’s had two fantastic years in Europe and wants to finish his career in Tulsa.’’

Tulsa opened the season with 10 new faces on its 19-man roster. Nine have had previous duty with the Oilers, and five are rookies. Ramsay praised newcomers Matt Register and Drew Fisher, plus goalie Dan Bakala.

“Register is a new young defenseman with good size and skills,’’ he says. “Fisher joined us at the end of last season and was really successful. He looks good on defense. Bakala played two outstanding games in preseason. We had very good goalies in camp and my toughest decision by far was which ones to keep. We had salary cap issues and had to release Larry Sterling, but Bakala is a special player with a bright future. I think he could move up this season.’’

Ramsay started the year with three lines that played well together in a 4-3 preseason victory at Wichita and a 4-2 triumph over CHL newcomer Denver. The first line consisted of rookie Jeremiah Ketts, Gordon and Menei. The second was made up of familiar faces in Beauregard, Michel Beausoleil and Gary Steffes. The third unit listed rookie Matt Gingera, Ryan Cramer and Troy Ofukany. Steffes is the leading returning scorer with 58 points.

With the retirement of forward Marty Standish, more leadership falls on veteran defenseman and captain Tyler Fleck, D-men Sean Erickson and Gio Flamminio and returning goalie Ian Keserich.

Tulsa’s greybeards are facing a new-look CHL which is still evolving as the season starts. The league is down to ten teams and Quad City is already under managerial and financial hardship, failing to complete camp in time for its season debut at Wichita. Tulsa replaced the Mallards against the Thunder on Oct. 19, and the team’s status was uncertain heading into the Oilers’ home opener against the Mallards on Oct. 26.
“Pro hockey is a tough business and Quad City has new owners,’’ notes Ramsay. “They’re going through a late start, but once they get the cobwebs out, they will be fine.

“I think ten teams is a good, healthy number for our league. We want to make sure every team is strong and financially viable so we can move on. Eight of the 10 teams make the playoffs and we had a very tough time last year with our schedule. I thought we had a successful year with a very young team, but this year we’ve set our sights a little higher.’’

Ramsay said more offensive capabilities result in playoff expectations. He said his defense is also strong, but the unit is young. He said it’s a matter of new guys filling the holes where needed.
In the meantime, Ramsay says that Allen, Rapid City, Wichita and Missouri will be the teams to beat. His goal for the Oilers is a simple one.

“I want a team capable of winning a championship, one that walks out of a rink every night with other teams saying ‘man, I’m impressed. What a damn good hockey team.’ I’m very optimistic.’’

BCHL Team-By-Team Reports:

This is in the November Issue of the BC Hockey Now Newspaper:

BCHL Team-By-Team Reports

November 08, 2012

Posted in BC Edition, Junior A

By / Brent Mutis

With the World Junior A Challenge (WJAC) going on in Yarmouth, N.S., several BCHL teams are making do without some of their top players. Penticton Vees forward Wade Murphy is one of 15 BCHLers on Team Canada West (TCW) and his absence means there could be a change atop the scoring race. Will Langley’s Mario Puskarich overtake him? Or maybe West Kelowna’s Marcus Basara? It’s going to be fun to watch.

INTERIOR DIVISION

Merritt Centennials

The Cents remain in striking distance of first-place Penticton thanks partly to offseason acquisitions Sebastian Pare and Derek Huisman who are second and third in team scoring. Goalie Tyler Steel narrowly missed making TCW but that’s helpful for the Cents as the Vernon-native is having a great season.

Penticton Vees

Losing Wade Murphy, Mike Rebry, Troy Stecher and James De Haas to the WJAC will present a challenge to Penticton but it will give opportunities to youngsters Ryan Gropp, Cody DePourcq, Louie Nanne and Alex Jewell. Vets Sam Mellor and Chad Katunar will help steady the ship as well.

Salmon Arm SilverBacks

If they could play Vernon all the time, this team might be at the top of the division. The Gorillas have defeated the rival Snakes three times in overtime already. A recent road win over West Kelowna provides a confidence boost and an improving powerplay is a good sign.

Trail Smoke Eaters

They’re holding down the final playoff spot despite the fact they’ve surrendered the most goals in the league and are last in powerplay and penalty kill. Forward Brent Baltus is having a breakout campaign and has been piling up the points while goalie Lyndon Stanwood remains the frontrunner for team MVP.

Vernon Vipers

The Snakes have struggled to find real momentum and wins on Oct. 27 and Nov. 2 were their first consecutive victories this season. Aaron Hadley made TCW for the second straight year but Adam Tambellini did not so the team retains its top scorer. More production from their 14th-ranked power play would help.

West Kelowna Warriors

A four-game losing streak in late October and early November allowed Merritt to overtake them for second place and now Seb Lloyd will be away for three games since he made TCW. Getting captain Max French back from injury will be a big boost; he’s second in team goal-scoring despite just nine games played.

ISLAND DIVISION

Alberni Valley Bulldogs

No longer the league’s top-scoring team, the ‘Dogs will also be without leading scorer Evan Tironese due to TCW commitments. The blockbuster deal that sent Evan Anderson and Turner Popoff to Langley for defenceman Bo Pellah was a surprise but a six-game losing streak prompted a shakeup by ‘Dogs management.

Cowichan Valley Capitals

The BCHL’s second-best powerplay is detracted from by the fact the Caps also have the third-worst penalty killing in the league. Four players – Ryan Hanes, Teal Burns, Jordan Grant and Steen Cooper – are at a point per game or better but the team is still on the wrong side of the goals for/against category.

Nanaimo Clippers

It’s tight from second to fourth in the Island standings but the Clips lead the group that’s chasing Victoria and have games in hand on both Alberni Valley and Powell River. Nanaimo has the fewest powerplay goals in the league and has just an average PK – sharpening up the special teams will go a long way.

Powell River Kings

Probably no team is more challenged by losing players to the WJAC than the Kings as they’re losing their starting goalie in Jonah Imoo plus forward Evan Richardson and defenceman Luke Ripley. No Kings are even near a point-a-game and the loss of Matt Scarth with a shoulder injury is not helping.

Victoria Grizzlies

Safe to say they are the real deal. After a tragic finish last season, the Grizz are tops on the Island and boast one of the best goalie tandems with Brady Rouleau and Michael Stiliadis. The Fitzgerald triplets are 1-2-3 in team scoring and D-men DJ Jones and Nolan De Jong have been contributing though De Jong is with TCW from Nov. 5 to 11.

MAINLAND DIVISION

Chilliwack Chiefs

With three scorers – Austin Plevy, Josh Hansen and Luke Esposito – in the top six in league scoring, the Chiefs are a consistent offensive threat each night out. Couple that with rugged defensive work by captain David Thompson, Shay Laurent and Alexandre Perron-Fontaine and it’s not a leap to suggest the Chiefs could overtake Prince George for first place in the division.

Coquitlam Express

The Express have also been pilfered by TCW as Alex Kerfoot, Brandon Morley and Zach Pryzbek are all missing time for the WJAC. But goalies Cole Huggins and Daniel Urbani continue to put up microscopic goals-against averages and big save percentages. Express penalty killing has been lights-out as well.

Langley Rivermen

In a division where all the teams are above .500, somebody’s got to be last and lately it’s been Langley. But trading Bo Pellah brings in talented young forward Evan Anderson and with the way Mario Puskarich has been playing, the opposition will be on their toes. Production from the back is questionable now though without Pellah.

Prince George Spruce Kings

It looks like another successful season in PG and the home fans are taking note with attendance up almost 200 fans a night. Mitch Eden is one of two defencemen in the league leading his team in scoring (Shane Hanna in Salmon Arm is the other) and Coltyn Hansen and Cam Lawson have made up for the loss of the Fitzgerald triplets.

Surrey Eagles

Brady Shaw made an immediate impact after arriving in a deal from Coquitlam that sent Brandon Morley the other way. Shaw scored four times in his first two games and has kept Surrey in the picture in the tightest division in the league. There’s another good goalie tandem here with Michael Santaguida and Glenn Ferguson.

Rampage Sign Former Vipers Defenceman Tyson Strachan:

The AHL San Antonio Rampage have signed former Vernon Vipers defenceman Tyson Strachan.  No official press release on the signing but Strachan is listed on the Rampage roster-lineup.  The Rampage signed Strachan to a Professional Try-Out Contract (PTO) back on September, 28th 2012.   In 17 games with the Rampage Strachan has collected (1-5-6) Strachan split last year with the NHL Florida Panthers and the AHL San Antonio Rampage. In 50 regular season games with the Rampage Strachan collected (3-14-17) and in 15 regular season games with the Panthers Strachan collected (1-2-3). Strachan signed as a free agent with the Florida Panthers back in July 2011 after playing the last four seasons with the AHL Peoria Rivermen & the NHL St. Louis Blues. Strachan played just one season in Vernon (2002-03) collecting (6-22-28) in 56 regular season games with the Vipers, before playing four years at Ohio State University. Strachan was drafted by Carolina in the fifth round (137th overall) in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft.

Tyson Strachan's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=72630

BCHL Card Deadline Looming:

I was a little shocked to read that the Vipers traded rookie defenceman Kevin Guiltinan last week (Thursday).  He wasnt playing alot but for a 17 yr old rookie d-man I thought he was doing pretty good and added that team toughness to the Vipers lineup.  Kevin wasnt afraid to drop the gloves, stir it up, or get in the face of any player.  Kevin was a very tough 17 yr old and took alot of penalties.  I guess I was shocked when I heard about the trade Thursday evening because Guiltinan was one of the Vipers big recruits over the summer.  I read an article on the internet somewhere after they signed him, his hometown London Knights were all over him to come and play defence in the OHL but he was very serious about taking the NCAA route.  Before the pre-season even started I read that Kevin got his scholarship to Harvard so I knew he was only going to be with the Vipers for this year.  Kevin's toughness and steady play on the blueline will be missed thats for sure but I think in the end the Vipers get the better of this deal with Liam Board a 19 yr old who will be returning next season as a 20 yr old.  I wish Kevin all the best in Prince George.

I didnt really know much about Liam Board previous to the trade.  The Spruce Kings have already played their one and only game here in Vernon this season and I dont remember Liam from that game.  Board comes to the Vipers as a skilled forward who can put the puck in the net.  Board had (5-9-14) in twenty three games with the Spruce Kings this season and collected (17-18-35) last year with the OJHL Oakville Blades.  Board was drafted 144th overall in the 8th round by the OHL Oshawa Generals.  I also read he won a Gold Medal in 2011 with the Appleby Mens College hockey team.  I watched Board make his Vipers debut in Penticton Friday and again last night here in Vernon and was impressed with his play and game Friday night.  Last night Board picked up two penalties and wasnt very noticable.  Friday night the Vipers 4th line of Board, Michael Roberts and Brendan Persley was the teams best line and looked very strong.  In Friday's game Board went hard to the net and reads and sees the ice well.  Wasnt afraid to go into the corners and dig out the puck.  Now fifth in scoring on the Vipers roster I think once he gets to know his linemates a little better and feels comfortable with the Vipers Board will be a great addition to the team. 

Here is a writeup I read on the Prince George Spruce Kings Blog on Liam Board,

http://sprucekingscrusader.blogspot.ca/2012/07/getting-to-know-liam-board.html

Here is another article on Board who scored the the winning goal in the third overtime to win the high school tournament back in 2010

http://www.thestar.com/sports/highschool/article/752019--appleby-captures-a-real-thriller

With the BCHL Card Deadline this Friday it will be interesting to see if the Vipers are done making trades.  After last night's loss the Vipers drop back to below 500 and are tied for 4th with Salmon Arm.  Vernon is third from the bottom in the entire BCHL so you have to wonder if this is the team Jason Williamson wants to go with to try and make a run for the playoffs or does he want to try and make his club better to try and make a run for 2nd or 3rd place in the Interior and compete come playoff time?  I like the Vipers defence & goaltending situation but I personally think the Vipers are lacking in scoring and have one too many 3rd and 4th line grinders.  Yes these kids all work hard but they arnt putting up the points or contributing in the scoring much. 

Vees Return The Favour:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Vees Return the Favour
 
Saturday, November 24, 2012 - Submitted by Don Klepp

One night after being shaded by the Vipers in Penticton, the Vees reciprocated with a 3-1 win in Vernon on Saturday.

Sam Mellor led the Vees’ attack with the game-winning goal in the first period and an assist on Brad McClure’s insurance marker in the third period.

Cam Amantea got the other Vee goal, at 14:07, to tie the game at 1-1.  His conversion of a rebound from Sean Flanagan’s point shot came after Adam Tambellini had opened the scoring at 11:32 during the Vipers’ only power play of the game.

The Vees also scored on their opening power play, when Mellor’s floater made it through a gathering of bodies in front of Austin Smith.

On their subsequent four opportunities with the man advantage, they were held in check by the Viper penalty killers. Actually, the Vipers nearly tied the game at 2-2 early in the second period when Colton Sparrow had Chad Katunar at his mercy, only to see his shot hit Katunar’s right goal post and carom away from goal.

The Vees also came within a whisker of adding to their tally when Brock Balson hit the cross bar in the first period.

As in last night’s game between these teams, this contest had a playoff feel.  Tight checking and disciplined aggressive play were the order of the day.
The players who best exemplified this style of play were the Vees’ Cody Depourcq and Cam Amantea who, along with Jordan McCallum, employed a buzzsaw forecheck in the Viper zone every time they hit the ice. 

Veteran Presence Boosts Vipers:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Veteran presence boosts Vipers

Published: November 25, 2012

The injection of three 19-year-olds into the lineup did wonders for the Vernon Vipers in B.C. Hockey League action Friday night at the South Okanagan Events Centre.

Colton Sparrow and Brendan Persley, both returning from injury, and Liam Board, making his Viper debut after being acquired from the Prince George Spruce Kings a day earlier, all factored in Vernon’s 2-1 win over the host Penticton Vees.

From their own end, Sparrow and d-man Brett Corkey set up a streaking Aaron Hadley with a cross-ice clearance for the game’s opening goal eight minutes into the second period. Vees’ netminder Chad Katunar came out to play the puck, but got caught in no-man’s land, leaving Hadley an open net for his eighth of the season.

Persley, working on a line with Board and Michael Roberts, drove to the net four minutes into the third period, with the puck squirting out to Ryan Renz (2nd goal), who buried the top-shelf winner through a swarm of bodies in front of Katunar.

It was Persley’s first game back after missing the last 10 with a surgically repaired broken leg.

It was Vernon’s first win against Penticton (16-7-0-2) in three attempts, improving the Vipers to fourth in the Interior at 9-9-0-6. The Snakes entertained the Vees Saturday night at Wesbild Centre.

Head coach Jason Williamson called Friday’s result their biggest to date.

“Especially on their home ice. It was a complete team effort. This could be a huge turning point in our season this weekend.

“It was a great hockey game. I’m sure the (1,800) fans were treated to one of the best games they’ll see this season.”

Board had played with fellow Oakville, Ont. native Braedan Russell in Midget, and again with their hometown Junior A Blades last season. However, Williamson chose not to reunite the duo because he didn’t want to disrupt the big rig unit of Hadley, Jedd Soleway and Russell.

Louie Nanne (8th) was the lone Vee to solve first-star netminder Austin Smith (25 saves), scoring a buzzer beater in the second period. The Minnesota native took a stretch pass from Wade Murphy and got behind Vernon d-man Marc Hetnik for a partial breakaway, finishing the play with a clever flip shot over Smith’s blocker.

“He (Smith) made big saves when he had to,” said Williamson. “They had chances late and he was good when he had to be.”

Despite the gaffe, Katunar finished with 24 saves and third star.

In other BCHL action Friday night, Adam Clark recorded 28 saves for the shutout as the Salmon Arm SilverBacks blanked the host Trail Smoke Eaters 4-0 at Cominco Arena.

Vernon’s Alex Gillies led the SilverBacks with a goal and assist. Both Gillies and Jeff Kennedy, counting the opening goal, scored with the man advantage. Anthony Croston converted shorthanded and Steven Iacobellis rounded out the offence.

Armstrong’s Dylan Chanter scored once and Derek Huisman collected 2+1 as the Merritt Centennials upended the league-leading Chilliwack Chiefs 5-3 at Nicola Valley Arena. Tyler Steel, a Vernon product recorded 28 saves for his 12th win.

SNAKE BITES: The Vipers’ Landon Robin was a healthy scratch Friday night. Fellow forwards Craig Martin (broken ankle) and TJ Dumonceaux (knee) are injured...The SilverBacks named Brandon Mistal as their 13th franchise captain after they traded Bennett Hambrook to the Smoke Eaters earlier in the week.

Penticton 3 Vernon 1

For anyone who could not attend or watch tonight’s Vipers game here are my thoughts and views from tonight’s game. You may agree or disagree but we all have our own view and opinion on any game we watch. This is my opinion and my thoughts on how I saw tonight’s game. I try to be unbiased and give a fare recap on both sides. Thanks for stopping by & visiting my blog.

I was at tonight's BCHL game as Penticton defeated Vernon 3-1 in front of 1,966 fans at the Wesbild Centre.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon:  Austin Smith
Penticton:  Chad Katunar

1st Period:  Just thirty seconds into the contest Brett Corkey's point shot was redirected in front by Adam Tambellini who was robbed by Vees starting goaltender Chad Katunar who come across making a huge pad-leg save.  The Vees come right back the other taking a shot that went high in the air off the back glass before landing right out front of the crease of Vipers starting goaltender Austin Smith, luckily for the Vipers no Penticton players were close enough to get any kind of a shot off.  Just two minutes later Liam Board with a great chance in the slot was stopped by Katunar who come up with another big save in close before Brendan Persley fired just wide on the rebound on back to back Viper opportunities.  Vernon got off to a strong start but that only last the opening few minutes before the Vees started to pressure and forecheck the Vipers deep in their own end forcing the Vipers into several turnovers inside their own end.  Penticton with all kinds of pressure were hemmining the Vipers deep in their own end and taking it too Vernon for a good four or five minutes.  It took Penticton atleast three minutes to record their first shot on goal.  Marc Hetnik coughed up the puck inside the blueline making a poor pass right on the tape of former Salmon Arm Silverback forward Brock Balson who stepped over the circle and ripped a hard high shot that beat Smith but went off the crossbar.  After the opening few minutes it was all Penticton but it was the Vipers outshooting the Vees 8-3 at the halfway mark.  Vernon would get the games first powerplay at the midway mark of the 1st and capitalize after Brett Corkey setup Adam Tambellini who's shot looked to hit someone or something along the way beat Chad Katunar at 11:32 giving Vernon a 1-0 lead.  Corkey and Pearce Eviston picked up the assists.  The Vees stormed back off the next faceoff as Dexter Dancs cashed in off a Viper turnover in behind the Vernon goal was left all alone in front put a nice move in close but couldnt beat Austin Smith who made a huge right pad-leg save.  Just two minutes later Cody DePourcq setup a wide open Cam Amantea who beat Smith high glove side with traffic in front tying the game 1-1 at 14:07 DePourcq and Sean Flanagan picked up the assists.  The Vees would get a bit of a scare after Flanagan would leave the ice heading to the Penticton dressing room before returning to the game later.  Penticton would get a late powerplay and capitalize taking the lead.  Just ten seconds into the man advantage former Trail Smoke Eater Sam Mellor's point shot got through traffic beating Smith at 17:19 giving the Vees a 2-1 lead.  Captain Troy Stetcher collected the lone helper.  The Vipers got off to a good start but after the first few opening minutes it was all Penticton as the Vees were skating hard, moving the puck around well and capitalizing on Vernon's turnovers.  Not alot of scoring chances at either ends of the rink.  The Vees with a 2-1 lead after 20 minutes of play.  Penticton outshot Vernon 11-10.

2nd Period:  Just three minutes into the middle frame Penticton would get their second powerplay of the night.  Some nice passing setup former West Kelowna Warriors forward Travis Blanlei at the side of the net who just missed wide.  The Vipers with a very good penalty kill had a great chance to tie the game after Colton Sparrow went in all alone for the breakaway beating Chad Katunar but hit the post before the puck went off Katunar's back and out the otherside as Vernon would kill off the minor.  Just as the penalty expired the Vipers would head right back to the penalty box giving Penticton back to back powerplays.  The Vees moving the puck around well setup Sean Flanagan whos shot from the point was stopped by the quick glove save of Austin Smith.  Penticton couldnt capitalize after another good penalty kill by Vernon.  Penticton would get a big scare after Louie Nanne went down in front of both benches and was very slow to get off the ice.  Nanne needed help off the ice and looked to have injured his leg-knee and didnt return.  Once again it was the Vees who carried the better of the play and was outplaying the Vipers who took almost eight minutes to get their first shot on goal.  The Vipers with just two shots on net at the halfway mark.  Vernon did play a little better defensively and wasnt turning over the puck as much as the opening period but the Vipers couldnt get any offence going.  The Vipers finally seemed to get going and come on strong late in the final three or four minutes had some late pressure but couldnt generate any real scoring opportunities.  With two and a half minutes remaining Brendan Persley dropped the gloves with Detroit Red Wings draft pick James De Haas.  A very good period by the Vees as Penticton outplayed and outplayed the Vipers most of the period.  The Vees were the hungrier team winning all the puck battles and races to the puck.  Penticton with a 2-1 lead after 40 minutes of play.  The Vees outshot the Vipers 15-8.

3rd Period:  The Vipers responded with a much better effort in the final frame and played well as both teams were fairly even going back and forth with very little scoring chances at either ends of the rink.  Penticton would get an early powerplay after the Vipers were called with too many men on the ice.  The Vees with just one shot couldnt capitalize as Vernon would kill off the minor.  Dexter Dancs would get a great chance in close was alone in the slot but somehow missed the net on a great scoring chance.  The Vees with a second opportunity in the second half couldnt capitalize with traffic in front.  Travis Blanlei tried setting up Cam Amantea on a two on one but Vipers captain Brett Corkey come up with a big defensive play breaking up the Vees odd man rush late in the third.  The Vipers come very close to tying the game with six minutes remaining after Michael Statchuk's blast from the point beat Katunar but just caught the edge of the crossbar going up into the netting behind the end glass.  With three and a half minutes remaining Penticton would ice the victory after Sam Mellor setup Brad McClure in the slot who roofed his shot high past Smith at 16:20 giving the Vees a 3-1 lead.  Mellor with the only assist on the goal.  Vernon didnt quit and pulled Austin Smith with about 1:50 remaining the Vipers with some pressure in the Vees zone had a few chances in close but couldnt find the back of the net before Travis Blanlei just missed the empty netter in the final minute.  With time winding down a scrum occured in the final thirteen seconds in and around the Vees goal as several Vipers were causing havoc trying to get under the skin of several Penticton Vees players.  Chad Katunar even got involved in the scrum as some pushing and shoving occured while several Viper players were giving little jabs in amoungst the scrum.  Vees Head Coach-GM Fred Harbinson was fired up from the bench really giving it to his troops on the ice, getting them to skate away from the scrum and finish off the final thirteen seconds.  After a long delay the game resumed with the Vees on a late powerplay to end the hockey game as Penticton come away with a hard fought 3-1 win to take a 3-1 series lead in the season series.  Both teams were fairly even most of the period with very little scoring chances.  Vernon outshot Penticton 11-6.

Top Players:  (Vernon)

Braeden Russell didnt put up any points or come up with any good scoring chances but played and battled hard all night.  Russell who missed most of the first two months of the season with an injury he picked up in the pre-season hasnt really stood out much since returning to the Vernon lineup.  Watching Russell in Training camp and the pre-season I was expecting bigger and better things from the Ontario kid.  Tonight he sure looked and played well.  Let's hope Russell can get going and keep up the pace.

Mitch Van Teeling another player who didnt record any points or was involved in any scoring opportunities I thought battled and played hard all night.  Van Teeling played very well on the penalty kill and was very aggressive on the forecheck, never backing down. 

Colton Sparrow who returned to the Vipers lineup last night after being out for a few weeks with an injury was the Vipers best player tonight.  Sparrow who had a great chance to tie the game shorthanded in the 2nd period hit the post also played with alot of energy & intensity. 

Brendan Persley who dropped the mits was another kid who comes to the rink ready to play and played hard-battled hard again tonight.  Persley was very good up front for the Vipers.

Austin Smith (29 saves)  I dont think Smith had as good as game as last night nor did he get the same amount of quality scoring chances as last night but played well between the pipes tonight.

Game Thoughts:  (Vernon)

After a huge 2-1 victory in Penticton last night you have to wonder if the Vipers were a little too over confident tonight?  This wasnt the same Viper team I watched last night in Penticton.  Other then the 3rd period I didnt think Vernon looked or played that well this evening and was outplayed most of the game.  Vernon cant match Penticton skill wise, so the Vipers need to play more of a dump and chase-physical game vs the Vees.  Get the puck in deep, hit the d-men hard and grind it out, battle and make the Vees earn the battles for the puck.  The Vipers need to play more of a grinding-physical game vs Penticton.  Vernon has the size and I think is bigger then the Vees.  The Vipers also need to get more shots towards the net, get bodies going hard to the goal looking for rebounds as Chad Katunar is a good goaltender but isnt very good with his rebounds and puck control.  The Vipers come out strong and were ready to go off the opening faceoff but after the first few minutes it was all Penticton for the remainder of the 1st and entire 2nd periods.  The Vipers looked to be not on the same page with one another, especially in the first two periods.  Vernon with way too many turnovers inside their own blueline, especially in the opening period.  I didnt think the Vipers passing was that great, way too many passes missing guys sticks or hoping over guys sticks etc.  I thought Vernon was outworked and outplayed most of the game.  Give the Vipers a little credit they did tighten up defensively in the 2nd period and limited the Vees to just two maybe three quality scoring chances killing off two penalties.  Vernon played a much better 3rd period but couldnt generater enough offensive chances to try and tie the game.  With the loss & a Salmon Arm win tonight, Vernon falls back to below 500 and are now tied for 4th place with the Silverbacks.

Top Players:  (Penticton)

Dexter Dans played very well for the second straight night.  Dancs with a few good quality scoring chances played well up front for the Vees.

Cody DePourcq (1 assist) Also played very well for the second straight game.  Depourcq a smaller kid always seems to find his way through players and get involved in several scoring plays.

Sean Flanagan (1 assist)  Come back to the game after leaving during the opening period played very well on Penticton's blueline.  A very good pickup by the Vees aquiring the former Salmon Arm Silverback.

Troy Stetcher (1 assist) Played a heck of a game for the Vees on the backend.  The Penticton captain was involved in the play through out tonight's game jumping up into the rush coming up with a few scoring opportunities.

Travis Blanlei played a strong game up front for the Vees for the second straight night.  The former West Kelowna Warrior always plays well against the Vipers.

Brad McClure (1 goal) Played very well tonight.  Wasnt involved in the scoring much but was good at both ends of the rink.

Chad Katunar (28 saves) Didnt see as much action as he did last night but again made the big saves when needed tonight.  Id say Katunar made his biggest and best saves in the opening few minutes of tonight's contest.  This kid is a bigger goaltender that has those longer legs so when coming across low covers alot of the ice low.

Game Thoughts:  (Penticton)

After a tough 2-1 loss to the Vipers on home ice last night Penticton responded with a big 3-1 win tonight at the Wesbild Centre.  The Vees who had just three wins in nine games prior to tonight played a very well road game.  Just like last night the Vees have a very quick, puck moving team.  Penticton changed up their game plan a little tonight and it worked.  The Vees who played well defensively limited Vernon's scoring chances as well as put alot of pressure and forecheck on the Viper defence in their own end forcing the Vipers into turnovers.  Penticton looked hungry tonight and battled-competed all night, winning the battles and the races to the puck.  I thought the Vees had a step up on the Vipers and it showed through out the game.  The Vees were going to the net more compared to last night and just seemed to want tonight's game a little more. 

Scratches:

Vernon:

Craig Martin (Injured)
TJ Dumonceaux (Injured) 
Landon Robin

Penticton:

Mike Rebry
Jordan Boultbee
Rob Mann

Vipers Energy Player Of The Game:

Braeden Russell

Three Stars:

1st Star:  Sam Mellor (1 goal & 1 assist)
2nd Star:  Brad McClure (1 goal)
3rd Star:  Pearce Eviston (1 assist)

For more on tonight's game visit the boxscore,

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=1102955&link=bchl

For more on tonight's game and the Penticton Vees visit Fraser Rodger's Penticton Vees Blog,

http://pentictonvees.wordpress.com/

(Game Preview) Penticton @ Vernon:

 Penticton (16-7-0-2) @ Vernon (9-9-0-6) 7:00pm start

Tonight is the fourth of seven meetings between the Vernon Vipers and the defending National champion Penticton Vees. The Vees lead the season series 2-1. You can listen to tonight's contest live with Todd Miller starting with the pre-game show at 6:45pm on 107.5 Kiss FM

Last Game:

Friday, November 23rd Vernon defeated Penticton 2-1

Next Game:

Friday, November 30th Vernon @ West Kelowna
Wednesday, November 28th Salmon Arm @ Penticton

Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon is 34-24-2-4 vs. Penticton

Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon has outscored Penticton 207-187

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 17-7-1-1 at home vs. Penticton

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 14-13-1-1 in Penticton

Vernon is 4-4-1-1 in their last ten visits to Penticton

Penticton is 4-5-0-1 in their last ten visits to Vernon

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

Vernon's last win at home vs Penticton was a 7-1 victory back on Wednesday, November 2nd 2011

Penticton's last win at the Wesbild Centre was a 6-2 victory on Friday, October 21st 2011

Vernon's last win at the South Okanagan Events Centre was a 2-1 victory back on Friday, November 23rd 2012

Penticton's last win at home vs Vernon was a 4-2 victory back on Friday, October 5th 2012

The Vipers went 1-6-0-0 vs Penticton last 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: 1030
Wins: 652
Losses: 274
Ties: 16
Overtime Losses: 92

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:

The Vipers are coming off a 2-1 win in Penticton last night, their first win at the South Okanagan Events Centre since October, 22nd 2012  Tonight is the second game of a home & home series between these two teams as the Vipers have won two straight and have won three out of their last five games.  Vernon sits in 4th place in the Interior Division just three points back of 3rd place West Kelowna and four points back of 2nd place Merritt.   

Adam Tambellini (15-15-30) leads the Vipers in goals with fifteen and in points with thirty

Games Played: 24
Wins: 9
Losses: 9
Ties: 0
Overtime Losses: 6
Home Record: 5-3-0-3
Road Record: 4-6-0-3
Goals For: 65
Goals Against: 66
Streak: Two game winning streak
Standings: 4th Place

Vernon Vipers Returning Players:

Brett Corkey (92)
Marc Hetnik (92)
Geoff Crisfield (93)
Aaron Hadley (93)
Danny Todosychuk (94)
Colton Sparrow (93)
Jedd Soleway (94)
Ryan Renz (93)
Adam Tambellini (94)

Vernon Vipers Departing & traded players from last years team:

Michael Zalewski (92)
Brendan Persley (93)
Darren Nowick (91)
Riley Hunt (95)
John Knisley (92)
Colton Cyr (91)
Patrick McGillis (91)
Sean Robertson (91)
Ben Gamache (91)
Max Mowat (93)
Turner Lawson (94)
Kirby Halcrow (91)

Vernon’s home record vs. Penticton this season:

0-0-0-0

Vernon’s road record vs. Penticton this season:

1-2-0-0 (One game was played in Chilliwack at BCHL Showcase)

Vernon’s Powerplay vs. Penticton this season:

0-10

Vernon’s scoring leaders vs. Penticton this season:

Adam Tambellini (2-1-3)
Aaron Hadley (2-1-3)
Pearce Eviston (0-2-2)
Michael Statchuk (0-1-1)
Craig Martin (1-0-1)
Jedd Soleway (0-1-1)
Brett Corkey (0-1-1)
Michael Roberts (0-1-1)
Liam Board (0-1-1)
Ryan Renz (1-0-1)

Austin Smith (1-2 Record)

Key’s and Notes to tonight’s game:

-Vernon has the leagues 11th best powerplay

-The Vipers have the BCHL's 15th best penalty kill

Lets take a look at the Penticton Vees:

The defending Royal Bank Cup Champion Penticton Vees make their first visit of the regular season to the Wesbild Centre tonight after a 2-1 loss at home to the Vernon Vipers last night.  Penticton has now dropped back to back games and has just three wins in their last nine games.  The Vees will be back in Vernon within a few weeks on December, 14th 2012

Brad McClure (14-6-20) leads the Vees in goals with fourteen

Wade Murphy (13-20-33) leads Penticton in points with thirty three

For more on the Penticton Vees and tonights game, please visit Fraser Rodgers Three Vees Penticton Vees Blog, http://pentictonvees.wordpress.com/

Regular Season:

Games Played: 25
Wins: 16
Losses: 7
Ties: 0
Overtime Losses: 2
Home Record: 8-3-0-1
Road Record: 8-4-0-1
Goals For: 83
Goals Against: 65
Streak: Two game winning streak
Standings: 1st Place

Penticton Vees Returning Players:

Cody DePourcq (95)
Wade Murphy (93)
Troy Stecher (94)
Chad Katunar (93)

Penticton Vees Departing & traded players from last years team:

Joey Benik (92)
Mario Lucia (93)
Travis St. Denis (92)
Connor Reilly (91)
Mike Reilly (93)
Alex Jewell (94)
Steven Fogarty (93)
Bryce Gervais (92)
Ryan Reilly (91)
Curtis Loik (93)
Logan Johnston (91)
Zach Urban (93)
Nick Buchanan (91)
Grant Nicholson (93)
DJ Jones (92)
Kyle Beaulieu (91)
Chad Bannor (92)
Michael Garteig (91)

Penticton's Home record vs. Vernon this season:

2-1-0-0 (One game was played in Chilliwack at BCHL Showcase)

Penticton's Road record vs. Vernon this season:

0-0-0-0

Penticton's Powerplay vs. Vernon this season:

2-14

Penticton's scoring leaders vs. Vernon this season:

Sam Mellor (2-3-5)
Troy Stecher (0-4-4)
Wade Murphy (2-2-4)
Michael Rebry (3-0-3)
Louie Nanne (1-1-2)
Ryan Gropp (1-0-1)
James De Haas (0-1-1)

Chad Katunar (2-1 Record)

Key’s and Notes to tonight’s game:

-Penticton has the BCHL's 13th best powerplay

-The Vees have the league's 5th best penalty kill

Here's a look at both teams rosters:

Vernon Vipers:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/stats_1team.cfm?leagueID=2393&clientID=1413&teamid=224096

Penticton Vees:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/stats_1team.cfm?leagueID=2393&clientID=1413&teamid=224101