Sunday, October 4, 2009

(Game Preview) Burnaby @ Vernon:


Burnaby (5-1-0-2) @ Vernon (7-1-0)

Last Game Played:

Saturday October 3rd Penticton defeated Vernon 2-0
Saturday October 3rd Trail defeated Burnaby 5-4 In Overtime

Tonight is the first regular season meeting of the season between the defending Royal Bank Cup Champion Vernon Vipers & the Burnaby Express. The Vipers are playing their third game in three days, while the Express are also playing their third game in three days. Visit my Blog after todays game for my game recap on the game.

Let’s take a look at the Vernon Vipers:

The Vipers currently sit in 2nd place in the Interior Division Standings, four points back of the Division leading Penticton Vees (9-2) with three games in hand. Vernon suffered its first loss of the season dropping its record to 7-1 last night with a 2-0 loss to the Penticton Vees. Going back to Game six of last years BCHL Finals the Vipers had won 22 straight games including the pre season. This afternoon will be another tough game as the Express come into Vernon with a solid 5-1-0-2 record having played fairly well this young season. The Vipers come into this weekends action facing three top clubs. (Westside 4-3 win), Penticton 2-0 loss) & Burnaby) The Vipers need to work on the teams powerplay after struggling the past two games going 1-14. The Vipers are going to have to watch the big guns for the Express as, Jon Puskar, Rich Manley & Matt Ius are in the leagues top 20 for scoring. Vernon is going to have to try and jump on Burnaby early a team that played Friday in Salmon Arm and then last night in Trail. The Vipers need all 20 players to show up tonight with a full 60 minute effort, this isn’t going to be no pushover. Vernon will be facing another strong goaltender in Harrison May, so once again will have to try and get lots shots & bodies in front of the goal.

Players To Watch:

Mike Collins (5-6-11)
Braden Pimm (2-7-9)
Dylan Walchuk (2-6-8)
Jonathan Milhouse (4-4-8)
Cory Kane (5-2-7)
Dan Nycholat (0-6-6)
Connor Jones (1-5-6)
Kellen Jones (1-5-6)
Kevin Kraus (1-4-5)
Cole Ikkala (2-3-5)
Adam Thompson (1-3-4)
Graeme Gordon (6-1 Record-1 Shutout-1.71 GAA)

Let’s take a look at the Burnaby Express:

The Express currently sit 2nd place in the Coastal Division with a 5-1-0-2 record three points back of the Division leading Powell River Kings. Burnaby is coming off a 7-2 loss to Salmon Arm Friday night & then falling 5-4 in Overtime last night in Trail. The Express have 7 players returning from last years team. Burnaby comes into tonights game with three players in the top 20 in league scoring, Jon Puskar (7-6-13), Rich Manley (6-7-13) & Matt Ius (4-8-12) Rich Manley has atleast one point in each of the teams last eight games while Matt Ius has atleast one point in each of his last five games. The Express have scored 32 goals goals but have some troubles keeping the puck out, giving up 26 goals. The Express have a league 5th best ranked powerplay. Burnaby comes into Vernon with a 3-1-0-1 road record. Burnaby will have to watch all four Vernon lines, and will have to somehow try and beat the strong Vernon defence and goaltending of Graeme Gordon. The Express need to put pressure on the Vipers d-men, and get a lot of pucks and traffic towards Gordon. You the Express don’t want to head back to the Coast with no points, the Vipers will have to be ready to face a hungry Express team. Burnaby has a handful of players that may know a thing or two about the Vernon Vipers, all these kids at one point played for an Interior team last year. Brad Reid (Penticton) Dylan Herold (Merritt & Trail) Luke Challier (Penticton and also was at Vernons training camp last year) Jimmy Geerin (Penticton & Trail) Matt Ridley (Penticton) Jared Chernoff (Westside) Tod Fletcher (Prince George) Stefan Gonzales (Westside) & Harrison May (Merritt) For more on the Burnaby Express and todays game, check out the Burnaby Expressions blog for great coverage on the Express and BCHL, http://expressvoice.blogspot.com/

Players To Watch:

Jon Puskar (7-6-13)
Rich Manley (6-7-13)
Matt Ius (4-8-12)
Garrick Perry (5-3-8)
Brad Reid (2-6-8)
Dylan Herold (4-2-6)
Harrison May (3-3- Record 3.29 GAA)

Heres a look at last year's season series:

September 28th @ Burnaby: Vernon wins 5-2

After falling behind 2-1 after the 1st period Vernon scored four times in the final two periods to defeat Burnaby 5-2. Braden Pimm with two, Kyle Bigos, Ryan Santana & Ryan DePape scored for the Vipers. Mike Collins with two assists, while Bigos & Pimm collected three points each. Max Grassi & Paul De Jersey scored for the Express.

http://bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=573421

Here's a look at both team's rosters:

Vernon:

Erik Soderlund
Mike Collins
Braden Pimm
Cory Kane
Dylan Walchuk
Jonathan Milhouse
Cole Ikkala
Kevin Kraus
Connor Jones
Dan Nycholat
Drew George
Adam Thompson
Sawyer Mick
Steven Weinstein
Kellen Jones
Rob Short
Nick Amies
Bryce Kakoske
Garrett Noonan
Patrick McGillis
Brendan Persley
Darrin Robak
Blake Voth
Graeme Gordon

Burnaby:

Jon Puskar
Rich Manley
Matt Ius
Garrick Perry
Brad Reid
Dylan Herold
Luke Challier
Jimmy Geerin
Zac Ashdown
Simon Denis
Chris Van Duynhoven
Matt Ridley
Clay Wilson
Jared Chernoff
Tod Fletcher
Stefan Gonzales
Konrad Sander
Brodie Jamieson
Kai Ohs
Sean Dinsmore
Alex Petan
Nick Enegren
Harrison May
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Vees Break Vipers' Streak:

Vees break Vipers' streak

by Don Klepp -Oct 4, 2009

The Vernon Viper 18-game winning streak (going back to the 2009 playoffs) has been halted by a determined Penticton Vee squad. Despite being out shot 34 to 15, the Penticton Vees beat the Vernon Vipers 2-0 in Vernon Saturday night. Sean Bonar was solid in the Penticton goal, but he received a lot of help from his defence and forwards, who worked tirelessly to prevent Viper second chances. Bonar allowed few rebounds, but when he did, Vee skaters were on hand to tie up Viper sticks. In the neutral zone, the Vees kept their sticks in passing lanes, and in the defensive zone the Vees blocked dozens of Viper shots. Viper coach Jason Williamson credited the Vees’ effort, saying that they played “a perfect road game,” but added, “essentially we beat ourselves tonight. We played well defensively, holding them to 15 shots, but our shooting wasn’t sharp and we gifted them two goals.” Williamson was referring to blue line turnovers. In the second period, with the Vipers on the power play, a mix-up between Connor Jones and Kevin Kraus at the Vee blue line allowed Denver Manderson to skate away with the puck. Connor caught up with Manderson at the Viper blue line, but another Vee shouldered Connor aside, allowing Manderson to rip a wrist shot past Graeme Gordon at 16.58. Penticton got an insurance goal early in the third period. Alex Szczechura caused a turnover at the Viper blue line and went in with Joey Holka, who accepted Szczechura’s feed and beat Gordon at 1.53. The Vipers nearly got on the score sheet in the third Mike Collins rang a rising wrist shot off the post and Kellen Jones missed the far corner by a whisker while on a short handed 2 on 1 rush with brother Connor. Meanwhile, the Vees had their own near misses. In the first period, Joey Holka hit the post off a faceoff scramble in the second period, Beau Bennett missed an open net from 10 feet during a Vee power play. Neither team was able to convert their power play chances. The Vipers failed on 7 power man advantage opportunities, while the Vees were 0 for 5. With the win, the Vees extend their lead over the Vipers to 4 points in the standings, although the Vipers have three games in hand. The two teams will resume their rivalry in Penticton next Friday.

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Saturday, October 3, 2009

Penticton 2 Vernon 0

Was at tonights BCHL game as Penticton defeated Vernon 2-0 in front of 2,052 fans at the Wesbild Centre.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon: Graeme Gordon
Penticton: Sean Bonar

1st Period: Both teams come out hitting feeling one another out with some big checks. The Vipers got a scare early on as Dylan Walchuk was hit hard deep in the Vernon zone and looked to have maybe took a knee on knee with a Vees forward, Walchuk was slow to get up and head off the ice before being helped to the Vernon dressing room. Walchuk seemed to be ok as he returned to the bench just before the midway mark and finished the hockey game. Vernon with some good early pressure cycled the puck well down low but couldnt come up with any real solid scoring chances. The Vipers would get the first powerplay of the game just a few minutes into the period up 5-0 in shots the Vernon defence got a little sloppy at the blueline, wich resulted in a turnover, Vees Captain, Denver Manderson & Eric Filiou went in two on one shorthanded as Grame Gordon was forced to make three saves as Penticton come close to opening the scoring. Penticton would kill off the minor. The Vipers looked good as they went back to work in the Vees zone but once again most of the shots were coming from the outside as Sean Bonar was able to make the easy saves. Penticton would get its first powerplay of the night and with some good puck movement The Vees with a few early chances also couldnt connect on the man advantage. Adam Thompson with the Vipers best scoring chance wired a shot from the top of the circle that just missed the far top corner. Joey Holka with a great chance for the Vees was stopped by Gordon. Vernon would get two late powerplays but would struggle with the man advantage getting very few shots. Give credit to Pentictons strong penalty kill, the Vees forwards really challanged the Viper d-men into rushing the puck, wich caused several turnovers. Penticton did a great job all night blocking the shooting lanes wich the Vipers were oppted to go for the pass instead of getting off a shot. Vernon would get one good chance as Captain Kevin Kraus jumped up into the play, after recieving a pass from the corner, but couldnt beat Bonar down low. The Vees would kill off both minors. Vernon carried the better of the play for most of the period but come up with very few real good scoring chances. Penticton was having trouble staying on their feet, as the Vees seemed to keep falling down in their own end, not sure if it was a problem with the ice or their skates. It was scoreless after the first 20 minutes of play. Vernon outshot Penticton 10-4.

2nd Period: The Vipers would get the puck in deep off the opening draw and come close to taking the lead after two quick shots from the point were deflected in front just missing the net. The Vees seemed to pick up their game and finally generate some offence, after getting two good chances in front. A bit of a delay took place after the Vipers door on the teams bench wouldnt close. Vernon would get its fourth powerplay of the night but once again couldnt take advantage. The Vipers were having all kinds of trouble with the strong forecheck of the Vees, Penticton was forcing the Vipers to the outside, not giving them any time or space. Penticton would kill off the minor. Mike Collins with a great chance to put Vernon ahead was robbed at the side of the net, after Braden Pimm setup Collins with a nice crease pass. Sean Bonar come sliding across the crease to rob Collins with the pad keeping the Vipers off the board. Penticton would get its second man advantage of the period, Beau Bennett thought he had put Penticton up 1-0 but somehow missed at the wide open net shooting high and wide. A quick shot from the point just about caught Gordon off gaurd after making the last minute pad save. With the Vipers on a late powerplay, Connor Jones made a poor pass back to Dan Nycholat who couldnt keep the puck in, Denver Manderson went in for the breakaway with Jones chasing him down, Manderson went top shelf on Gordon putting the Vees up 1-0 at 16:58 the goal was unassisted. The Vipers were unable to tie things up after Penticton killed off the minor. The Vees would get a late powerplay wich carried over into the 3rd. A fairly even period but the Vees did have the better of the scoring chances & were up 1-0 after 40 minutes of play. Vernon outshot Penticton 11-5.

3rd Period: After Vernon killed off the remainder of the minor, Braden Pimm, Mike Collins and Jonathan Milhouse went in three on one, Pimm setup Collins for the onetimer who rang his shot off the far post, back come the Vees, Alex Szczechura battled hard with Nick Amies, knocking him off the puck, stealing it and getting a quick shot off as Gordon had to be sharp making the big pad save but couldnt control the rebound as Joey Holka slid the puck past Gordon into the empty net putting Penticton up 2-0 at 1:53. Szczechura got the lone assist. Specialty teams once again took over the final frame as the Vees went back on the man advantage but it was the Vipers who had the best scoring chance shorthanded. Connor Jones & Garrett Noonan went in two on one, Jones tried making the pass over to Noonan but the Penticton d-man made a strong defensive play to break up the pass. The Vipers looked very good on the penalty kill having better control of the play killing off the minor. Both teams exchanged penalties and neither team could score. Vernon didnt quit but was having all kinds of trouble trying to break through the neutral zone, as the Vees were really clogging up the middle. The Vipers did carry most of the play in the 3rd getting some chances as Sean Bonar played very well between the pipes for the Vees. Vernon was also making it look easy for Bonar at times as the Vipers shots were coming from the outside with no traffic in front, as Bonar was seeing everything. Connor Jones & Kellen Jones with a two on one couldnt beat Bonar after Kellen was stopped. Late in the game Vernon looked to be trying a little too hard as the bounces just wernt going the Vipers way. Mark Ferner would pull Graeme Gordon with two minutes remaining as the Vipers had the extra attacker out, with some good pressure down low the Vipers couldnt buy a goal, as time was winding down Vernon would get a late powerplay but it was too late as Penticton defeated Vernon 2-0 giving the Vipers their first loss of the season and ending their 22 game winning streak (going back to last years Playoffs). The Vees coaching staff was giving high fives to one another after leaving the bench, as this was one excited group. The Vipers outshot the Vees 13-6.

Top Players: (Vernon)

Connor & Kellen Jones played fairly well, really moved the puck well tonight, once again buzzing in and around the Vees net.

Mike Collins played very well up front, Collins hit the post once and was robbed at the side of the net getting some great chances. Collins really worked hard tonight, played in the grey areas and wasnt afraid of going into the corners.

Top Players: (Penticton)

Sean Bonar (34 saves-Shutout) Played very well, was seeing everything making it look easy. The Vipers also didnt make things any easier by shooting from the outside, with no traffic in front. Give credit to Bonar for shutting out the Vipers.

Eric Filiou & Denver Manderson (1 goal) played very well together. When with the puck, both kids are very dangerous. Two very skilled hockey players. Manderson showed good hustle on his shorthanded goal, scoring a real nice goal high and over Gordon.

Joey Holka (1 goal) Was very impressive tonight, had several good chances in front. This kid is big, can skate and handle the puck well.

Beau Bennett also played well for the Vees up front. Another bigger kid who is deadly with the puck. Had a great scoring chance on the Vees powerplay, but missed an empty net.

Matt Paltridge played very solid on the Penticton blueline.

Game Thoughts: (Vernon)

Well the Vipers 22 game winning streak comes to an end (going back to last years Playoffs) and the team losses its first game of the season. Maybe this was a good loss. The Vipers didnt play all that bad, but then again didnt play all that great. Vernons defence was having all kinds of troubles in their own end, coughed up the puck several times, some poor decisions caused turnovers and also cost them a goal or maybe two? The Vipers looked and played good in the opening period having the better of the play, just couldnt get any real good scoring chances. Outshooting the Vees 10-4 after the first 20 minutes the Vipers should have burried the Vees then when they had the opportunity, letting this team hang around for too long isnt good, and it showed tonight. Vernon looked very good on the draw in the first two periods but then lost many in the 3rd. Specialty teams was the difference, going 0-7 on the powerplay isnt going to win you hockey games, the Vipers like last night struggled with the man advantage. I thought the Vipers didnt have the same jump and energy tonight, like they normally do. Was it the hard fought 4-3 comeback win last night in Westside that tired them out? Not sure but they didnt get a full 60 minutes from a few players tonight. Vernons fourth line was having lots of troubles against the Vees and as the game went on, Mark Ferner was changing up his fourth line. Vernon also wasnt getting the bounces. The Vipers will have re group and get ready for another tough game tomorrow vs Burnaby.

Game Thoughts: (Penticton)

Penticton is big and has some dangerous players up front but overall the Vipers carried the better of the play. I was really impressed with the Vees specialty teams, Penticton moves the puck well on the man advantage and is very strong on the penalty kill. The last few years Fred Harbinson makes the forwards come out and challenge the d-men, wich results in turnovers or the other team to make the pass, instead of getting the shot off. Penticton really shuts down the shooting lanes, giving the Vipers very little time and space. Give full credit to the Vees, they scored on their chances and took advanatge on missed opportunities. When the Vees did have the puck in the Vipers zone, they looked very dangerous, a very quick puck moving team. I thought the Vipers gave them a good run for their money. A very greasy road win tonight.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Darrin Robak
Rob Short (Injured)
Patrick McGillis

Penticton:

Adam Zamec

3 Stars:

1st Star: Sean Bonar (34 saves-Shutout)
2nd Star: Denver Manderson (1 goal)
3rd Star: Garrett Noonan
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(Game Preview) Penticton @ Vernon:


Penticton (8-2-0-0) @ Vernon (7-0-0)

Last Game Played:

Friday October 2nd Vernon defeated Westside 4-3
Friday October 2nd Penticton defeated Trail 8-2

Tonight is the first regular season meeting of the season between the defending Royal Bank Cup Champion Vernon Vipers & the Penticton Vees & the first meeting since last years 2nd Round BCHL Playoffs. The Vipers are playing their second game of a three game weekend, while the Vees are playing their third game in five nights. Visit my Blog after tonights game for my game recap on tonights game.

Let’s take a look at the Vernon Vipers:

The Vipers currently sit in 2nd place in the Interior Division Standings, two points back of the Division leading Penticton Vees (8-2) Vernon improved its record to 7-0 last night with a 4-3 victory over the Westside Warriors. Going back to Game six of last years BCHL Finals the Vipers have now won 22 straight games including the pre season. Tonight will be the Vipers toughest and biggest opponent this young season after facing some of the leagues weaker teams over the past two weekends. The Vipers played their toughest game last night in Westside, but I think Penticton is going to be a real strong challenge for the Vipers tonight, even more then the Westside Warriors. The Vipers come into this weekends action facing three top clubs. (Westside, Penticton & Burnaby) Vernon has four solid lines that can produce offence, as the team has score thirty goals this season, giving up just eleven goals due to strong defensive play and the play of veteran goaltender, Graeme Gordon who is the leagues top goaltender. The Vipers powerplay sits 10th in the league. Mike Collins is the lone Viper in the top 20 in league scoring with 11 pts. Vernon is going to have to try and shut down the Vees top point getters in Denver Manderson (27 pts) Beau Bennett (24 pts) Garrett Milan (13 pts) Ryan Viselli (12 pts) & Alex Szczechura (11 pts) who are all in the leagues top 20 in scoring. The Vipers are also going to have to try and stay out of the penalty box tonight as Penticton comes into tonights game with the 2nd best powerplay in the league behind the Westside Warriors. The Vipers are going to need to play a full 60 minutes tonight if they expect to knock off the first place Vees.

Players To Watch:

Mike Collins (5-6-11)
Braden Pimm (2-7-9)
Dylan Walchuk (2-6-8)
Jonathan Milhouse (4-4-8)
Cory Kane (5-2-7)
Dan Nycholat (0-6-6)
Connor Jones (1-5-6)
Kellen Jones (1-5-6)
Kevin Kraus (1-4-5)
Cole Ikkala (2-3-5)
Adam Thompson (1-3-4)
Graeme Gordon (6-0 Record-1 Shutout-1.66 GAA)

Let’s take a look at the Penticton Vees:

The Vees currently sit in 1st place in the Interior Division & top spot in the BCHL with a record of 8-2, two points ahead of the Vernon Vipers. Penticton is coming off a big 8-2 home win over the Trail Smoke Eaters last night. Tonight will be a 1st place showdown as two of the leagues best face off against one another since last years Playoffs. The Vees have 11 players returning from last years team that will be eager to get revenge at Vernon from last years early Playoff exit. . Penticton comes into tonights game with a ton of depth having Denver Manderson (27 pts) Beau Bennett (24 pts) Garrett Milan (13 pts) Ryan Viselli (12 pts) & Alex Szczechura (11 pts) all in the leagues top 20 in scoring. The Vees have scored a league high 53 goals but have some troubles keeping the puck out, giving up 30 goals. The Vees come into Vernon with a 4-2 road record. Penticton will have to watch all four Vernon lines, and will have to somehow try and beat the strong Vernon defence and goaltending of Graeme Gordon. The Vees need to put pressure on the Vipers d-men, and get a lot of pucks and traffic towards Gordon. It sounds like the Vees have a very big-physical team, something they need to use to their advantage if they want to knock off the defending Champs. Vernon dosnt have the same size they did last year, going with a bit of a smaller team. Make sure and check out Ryan Pinder’s Penticton Vees blog, http://pentictonvees.podbean.com/ for all the latest info and stats on the Vees and the BCHL. Pinder gives a good insight with his game previews and interviews.

KEY RETURNEES: F Denver Manderson (15-37-52), F Garrett Milan (25-32-57), F Ryan Viselli (20-32-52), F Logan Johnston (2-3-5), F Joey Holka (3-8-11) D Derik Johnson (0-7-7), D Matt Paltridge (1-15-16) Sean Bonar (11-6-0, 2.45 GAA).

ROOKIE SENSATIONS: F Beau Bennett has NCAA school eyes on him. The 6-foot-2, 185-pound forward scored 25 goals and 58 points in 46 games with the L.A. Midget AAA Under 18 Kings. Alex Szczechura, brother of Paul of the Tampa Bay Lightning, helped the Brantford Junior B Eagles win the Sutherland Cup. He torched goalies for 70 goals and 163 points in 65 playoff and regular-season games. On the blueline, Byron Sorensen, Bo Dolan, Isaac MacLeod, brother of former Vee, Alex, Joseph Laleggia and Luke Curadi join veterans Paltridge and Johnson. MacLeod helped Nelson win KIJHL championship.

STRENGTHS: The Vees have nine returnees who know what coach Fred Harbinson expects. The Vees coach likes the fact that players are grasping system play quickly and are performing without having to think. The forward group is strengthened with Manderson, Trupp, Filiou and Sexton.

COACH'S QUOTE: Fred Harbinson: "We're not just about making flashy plays. We want to use our speed to create turnovers in the offensive zone. We want to pressure teams, finish our checks. Vernon is probably better than they were last year,” adding Salmon Arm, Prince George and Trail have also improved.

Players To Watch:

Denver Manderson (10-17-27)
Beau Bennett (8-16-24)
Garrett Milan (5-8-13)
Ryan Viselli (4-8-12)
Alex Szczechura (6-5-11)
Joey Laleggia (2-8-10)
Joey Holka (5-4-9)
Sean Bonar (6-1 Record-2.77 GAA

The Vees have been busy early on making a few key trades. Lets take a look at what roster moves the Vees have made since early September,

04-Sep-09 The Penticton Vees Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Erik Slemp (90)(F) to the Camrose Kodiaks Hockey Club of the AJHL in exchange for future considerations.

04-Sep-09 The Penticton Vees Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Louis-Phillip Boucher and future considerations to the Hawkesbury Hawks Hockey Club of the CJHL in exchange for the playing rights of Jean-Christophe Lirette.

09-Sep-09 The Penticton Vees Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Jeff Johnson to the Weeks Crushers of the MJHL in exchange for future considerations.

10-Sep-09 The Penticton Vees Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of James Bettauer (91)(D) to the Quesnel Millionaries Hockey Club in exchange for future considerations.

21-Sep-09 The Penticton Vees Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of JC Lirette (F)(89) to the Winkler Flyers Hockey Club of the MJHL in exchange for the playing rights of Sam Gemmell and future considerations.

30-Sep-09 The Penticton Vees Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Mitch Jones (91)(D) to the Nanaimo Clippers Hockey Club in exchange for future considerations.

Heres a look at last year's season series:

October 5th @ Vernon: Vernon wins 6-2

Tonight was the first meeting between these two teams since last years Game 7 Playoff Game. Penticton didn’t look very good as the Vipers handelled the Vees easily winning 6-2. Brent Vandenberg & Anthony Perdicaro each recorded two pts for Penticton in the loss. Bryce Kakoske with 3 pts, Braden Pimm & Adam Thompson each collected 2 pts each in the Vipers 6-2 win. Andrew Hammond picked up the win in goal.


November 22nd @ Penticton: Vernon wins 4-3 in Overtime

The Vipers made there first ever visit to the brand new South Okanagan Events Centre, coming home with a big 4-3 OT victory. Kellen Jones scored just 10 seconds into Overtime giving Vernon the win. This was a very entertaining hockey game. Ryan Viselli & Denver Manderson collected 2 pts each, as Jordan White looked very shaky taking the loss for the Vees in goal. Connor & Kellen Jones each picked up 2 pts, as Andrew Hammond played well getting the win between the pipes.


November 29th @ Penticton: Vernon wins 3-1

Curtis McKenzie scored the lone Vees goal in a 3-1 loss to Vernon. This was the second meeting between these two teams within a week. Cory Kane, Rob Short, & Captain Chris Crowell scored for Vernon, Andrew Hammond made 23 saves getting the win, looking very sharpe between the pipes.


December 5th @ Vernon: Vernon wins 5-4

Tonights game was the 3rd meeting within two weeks for these two teams as the rivalry goes on. Vernon was down 4-3 heading into the 3rd period but goals from John Digness and Rob Short helped the Vipers defeat the Vees 5-4. Brodie Reid, Zack Jojespher, Logan Johnston, & Garrett Milan scored for the Vees. Kevin Kraus, Sahir Gill, and Rob Short paced the Vipers with 2 pts each. Andrew Hammond picked up the win, Sean Bonar took the loss.


January 10th @ Penticton: Penticton wins 5-1

Vernon looked very good in the 1st period outshooting Penticton 15-0 but couldn’t solve veteran Joradn White to made some key saves. The Vees come out hard in the 2nd period, but it would be the Vipers who would open the scoring on a goal from Sahir Gill. The Vees would rally getting two goals from, Denver Manderson & Curtis McKenzie. The Vipers would get into penalty trouble come the 3rd as the Vees would score twice on the PP putting away Vernon 5-1. Brodie Reid with two and Ryan Viselli scored in the 3rd. Denver Manderson was by far the best player tonight picking up 1 goal & 3 assists in the victory. Andrew Hammond took the loss, while Jordan White picked up the win.


January 24th @ Vernon: Vernon wins 4-2

Ryan Viselli opens the scoring as the Vees get on the scoreboard first, but not before Sahir Gill ties things up 1-1 in the 1st period. Adam Zamec gives Penticton the 2-1 lead early into the 2nd period, before the Vipers rally with three straight goals to defeat the Vees 4-2. Chris Crowell, Connor Jones & Mike Collins with an empty netter rounded out Vernons scoring. Jordan White took the loss making 27 saves. Andrew Hammond gets the win, making 22 saves.


February 17th @ Vernon: Vernon wins 2-1 in Overtime

After a scoreless 1st period Ryan Johansen opened the scoring just 15 seconds into the 2nd period putting Penticton up 1-0. Mike Collins tied the game on the powerplay as both teams headed into the 3rd deadlocked at 1-1. No scoring in the final frame as both teams had some good chances. Rob Short would score the Overtime winner on a wrap around play, wich gave the Vipers there fourth straight win. Andrew Hammond played very well making 22 saves getting his 26th win of the season. Jordan White also played well, making 28 saves taking the loss.

http://www.bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=573814

February 21st @ Penticton: Penticton wins 5-3

Specialty teams early was the difference as the Vees scored two shorthanded goals and an even strength goal to pull ahead 3-0 after the first 20 minutes. Curtis McKenzie with two and Zack Josepher scored in the 1st. Both teams split goals in the 2nd, Max Grassi for Penticton & James Kerr for Vernon rounded out the scoring. The Vipers would get two out of the final three goals but it wasn’t enough as the Vees defeated the Vipers 5-3. Cory Kane & Sahir Gill scored for Vernon in the 3rd while Matt Paltridge replied for the Vees. Jordan White made 26 saves for the win, while Andrew Hammond was pulled after giving up four goals, Graeme Gordon took the loss making just 4 saves.

http://bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=573829&link=bchl

Heres a look at last years 2nd Round Playoff Series:

March 6th @ Vernon: Game 1 Penticton wins 4-3 Overtime

Just minutes into the game Penticton goes on an early two man advantage, with Andrew Hammond out of his crease and covering the puck, the play still alive, allows the Vees to pick up the loose puck as Garrett Milan beat Hammond putting the Vees on the board first. Everyone starts pushing and shoving before Cameron Brodie and Kyle Bigos drop the gloves as the Vees come out of the mini scrum with a 7 minute powerplay. Vernon kills off the major and then Adam Thompson would tie the game on the powerplay late in the 1st period. Ryan Santana would be stopped on a penalty shot early to start the 2nd period. After some good pressure by the Vipers, Sean Bonar keeps his hockey club in the game, allowing Curtis McKenzie and Ryan Johansen (PP) to give the Vees a two goal lead heading into the 3rd. It was all Vernon in the final frame, as the Penticton defence tried shutting down the Vipers with some early solid defensive coverage before the Vipers would rally scoring two goals tying the game 3-3. Sahir Gill (PP) & rookie Kory Roy beat Bonar sending the game to Overtime. In the extra frame the Vipers looked very soft and nervous, making all kinds of defensive errors causing many turnovers, wich resulted in Garrett Milans 2nd goal of the night, giving the Vees their first win of the season in Vernon. Andrew Hammond made 28 saves in the loss, while Sean Bonar who was a surprise start made 44 saves in the victory.


March 7th @ Vernon: Game 2 Vernon wins 5-1

Kellen Jones put the Vipers on the board first, as the Vipers were up 1-0 after 20 mins of play. Vernon Captain, Chris Crowell would score two goals in the 2nd as the Vipers went up 3-0 after 40 mins of play, Vernon was all over Penticton outshooting them 18-5 in the 2nd period. Garrett Milan missed on a penalty shot on a great chance to get the Vees back into the game. Braden Pimm sealed the victory scoring just 35 seconds into the 3rd as Vernon jumped ahead 4-0. Matt Paltridge would beat Andrew Hammond with a long shot, getting Penticton on the scoreboard. Cole Ikkala rounded out the Vipers scoring late as Vernon tied the series 1-1 with a 5-1 victory. Andrew Hammond made 24 saves for the win. Jordan White made 40 saves in the loss. The Vipers outplayed the Vees for most of tonights game, outshooting them 45-25. This was Pentictons 7th game in 9 nights.


March 9th @ Penticton: Game 3 Vernon wins 3-2

Cory Kane breaks a 2-2 with two and a half minutes left to score the winner for Vernon. Andrew Hammond was a rock between the pipes for the Vipers coming up huge making many big saves helping the Vipers to the 3-2 victory. A very entertaining game overall with some very tight checking defensive plays at both ends of the rink. Kyle Bigos and Kellen Jones scored the other Viper goals, while Garrett Milan scored both Penticton goals on the powerplay. Penticton outplayed Vernon all 3rd period but couldn’t beat Hammond for the game tying goal.


March 10th @ Penticton: Game 4 Vernon wins 7-2

Vernon with one of its best efforts of the season skated away with a convincing 7-2 win after thrashing the Vees. The Vipers lead 2-0 after 20 minutes of play and then punished Penticton in the 2nd with several big checks. The Vipers scored another three goals going up 5-1 after 40 minutes of play and in full control. Vernon would sit back in the final period as the Vees couldn’t solve Andrew Hammond all night. Vernons defence was very strong all night. Mike Collins, Braden Pimm, Kellen Jones, Sahir Gill & Chris Crowell collected two points each. Cory Kane & Rob Short picked up three points each. Andrew Hammond made 37 saves in the victory as the Vipers lead the series 3-1.

http://www.bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=673317

March 13th @ Vernon: Game 5 Vernon wins 7-1

With the defending BCHL Champion Vees season on the line, they didn’t have much to show for it in a 7-1 blow out loss to the Vernon Vipers. It was scoreless after the 1st period, before Vernon would take a 3-0 lead into the 3rd on goals from, Connor Jones, Cory Kane & Sahir Gill. The Vipers would end the Vees season with four goals in the 3rd. Gill with his 2nd of the night, Cole Ikkala, Kane with his 2nd of the night & Rob Short rounded out the Vipers scoring. Max Grassi scored the lone Penticton goal. Connor Jones, Cory Kane, Kellen Jones, Sahir Gill & Rob Short all collected 3 pts each. Andrew Hammond picked up the win, while Jordan White took the loss giving up all 7 goals. Vernon would win the series 4-1


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The Life Of Adam Thompson:

This is posted on the Vernondeals.ca website:

Thompson/Ikkala: Vernon Viper Editorial

The Life of Adam


By : Adam Thompson

Adam Thompson Number 28 Blog Entry

Hey Viper’s Fans! My name is Adam Thompson, I’m one of the defenseman for the reigning National Champion Vernon Vipers. Fortunately or unfortunately, your stuck with my fellow teammate Cole Ikkala and I for the year as we blog our lives during the season. First things first, I am from the beautiful province of Alberta and in the best city in Canada, Calgary. If you don’t believe how awesome it is, ask Cole.I started playing hockey when I was around 3 years old and played Minor Hockey in Calgary for the duration of my youth until I came to Vernon. My biggest influence in hockey had to be my two older brothers who both played hockey when I was young and my Mom and Dad who encouraged me to do something I loved and to be physically active. Both my brothers played Defense and taught me a lot about the position. We always had competitive family games out on the lake in the winter time and of course my Dad and I always won. My Dad coached my team when I was younger and my Mom was always there to drive me to the rink or help me out in any way she could, so I give a lot of credit to my family for the hockey player I am today. If I was asked to describe myself, I’d have a hard time, so I usually just impress people by saying I’m ambiguous, which means open to many interpretations. I like to think I am a nice, friendly and a caring guy. More often than not, I am overly competitive which is good but also can be bad, so combined with my pessimistic attitude those two make up my least favorable traits.A list of my favoritesMy favorite numbers are 2 and 7. Which makes people wonder why I am number 28?! I got stuck with 28 at the start of last year, but I’ve grown accustomed to it and my signature looks pretty awesome with 28 beside it. I am proud to wear the Vipers Jersey regardless of the number on it. My favorite food has to be grilled cheese because of how easy it is to make. I went to Maui, Hawaii with my family when I was really young, at age 6 or so, and at the resort we stayed at, there was a walk up food shack/restaurant where I only ordered grilled cheese. I must have had over 20 grilled cheese sandwiches on the trip. I have been to Mexico several times too, which accounts for my love for Pina Colida’s. It may be a girl’s drink, but I secretly enjoy them, virgin drinks obviously.My favorite chocolate bar has to be Reese Peanut Butter Cups or Mars Bars. I can never get enough chocolate or candy. My sweet tooth is overwhelming and I give in to it a lot, but its good to treat your self once in a while.I don’t really have a favorite genre of music because I like all types of music, or all the popular/generic types at least. Can’t say I enjoy Jazz or opera very much. My favorite band is Anberlin, which is a according to Itunes a “Pop/Rock “band. But I also like R&B and Hip Hop a lot. I can almost always find a good song from my fellow teammate Graeme Gordon in that field of music.Lastly, my favorite team is and probably will always be the Philadelphia Flyers. I have liked them since as long as I can remember. Every year I enjoy cheering for the “Broad Street Bullies”. Being from Calgary I obviously cheer for the Flames as well which is the reason why Jerome Iginla is my favorite player. He is a great captain and one of the best power forwards in the game. I love how he does it all on the ice and is a nice guy to all the fans, etc. Anyhow, until next time….Be sure to come to the Vernon Vipers games this weekend, we need the support!

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Friday, October 2, 2009

Vernon 4 Westside 3

Was at tonights BCHL game as Vernon defeated Westside 4-3 in front of 1,156 fans at Royal Le Page Place.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon: Graeme Gordon
Westside: Kevin Jebson

1st Period: Some good flow to start tonights hockey game with both teams going back and forth with very little scoring chances. Some good early hits between both teams in the opening minutes. Bryce Kakoske had the best scoring chance early after trying to go for the wrap-around on Kevin Jebson but couldnt get a good shot off on the play. No real good scoring chances early other then Kakoske's wrap-around play, but it was Vernon who had the edge in play and was up early outshooting Westside 5-1. The Vipers would get the first powerplay of the night but before it ended Jonathan Milhouse was give four minutes for spearing, wich put an end to the man advantage. With the Warriors now on the powerplay the Vipers defence kept the Warriors to the outside, not giving any time or space as the Vipers killed off Milhouses penalty as both teams went back to even strength. Vernon picked up the play in the second half of the 1st creating chances down low but couldnt beat Kevin Jebson who looked very strong with shots from inside and down low. Colton Sissons had Westsides best chance of the period after ripping a quick shot from the circle as Graeme Gordon made the save. Mike Collins graized the far post with a shot from the slot wich just about beat Jebson. Late in the 1st Dan Nycholat carried the puck in through the neutral zone and across the blueline, before feeding a saucer pass over to Braden Pimm who beat Jebson from the slot at 16:45 putting Vernon up 1-0. Nycholat with the lone assist. The Vipers were unable to hold the lead as under a minute remaining in the period, superpest Trevor Bailey with some nice moves across the Vernon blueline, roofed hos shot high over Gordon at 19:14 to tie the game 1-1. Cam Reid & Scott MacDonald collected the assists. It was tied 1-1 after 20 minutes of play. Vernon had the edge in play outshooting Westside 13-8.

2nd Period: Off the opening draw Connor Jones carried the puck in over the blueline, cut towards the goal and then tried to stuff the puck fivehole past Jebson, but the veteran goaltender shut the door. The Warriors stepped up their play in the 2nd period coming out hard, taking it to the Vipers in the first few minutes of action. Braden Pimm & Mike Collins on a turnover went in two on one, Pimm with the pass over to Collins who was robbed by Jebson who made a highlight real glove save to keep the scored tied 1-1. Back come Westside as the Warriors speed seemed to give the Vipers some trouble early on, with some nice passing Westside finally started creating chances of their own. Cole Wilson setup Grayson Downing in the slot who was stopped by Gordon. Captain Kevin Kraus made a huge defensive play, sliding across to break up a Warriors three on one. Cam Reid setup Scott MacDonald late on a Warriors powerplay to put Westside up 2-1 at 5:19. MacDonald beat Gordon from the slot after being left alone. Reid & Brendan Ellis with the assists. This was the first time all season that the Vipers have trailed in any hockey game. Westside changed their system a little in the middle frame, really attacking and forechecking the Vernon defence, wich resulted in many turnovers in the Vipers defensive zone. The Vipers d-men also were caught pinching on several plays, wich resulted in an odd man rush going back the other way. Westside carried the better of the play in the first half of the 2nd period. Things heated up in the 2nd period as both teams were getting under the skin of one another after some pushing and shoving after several stopages in play. The Warriors were in the Vipers face most of the period, trying to get the Vipers off their game. The Warriors would get into penalty trouble and it would cost them. Kellen Jones with a nice feed from down low, caught a pinching Steven Weinstein who snuck in from the point and beat Jebson at 13:39 as the Vipers tied the game 2-2. Vernon would get a two man advantage but failed to connect and take advantage. Some good puck movement but the Vipers couldnt beat Jebson who played very well all night. Give credit to the Warriors penalty kill who also played well, Cam Reid stole the puck from a Vernon d-man and then cut towards the goal, after having Gordon down and out, Reids stick was lifted at the last second and couldnt hit the empty net on a great shorthanded scoring chance. The Warriors really forechecked the Vipers strong in the middle frame. Westside would kill off both minors, before heading right back to the penalty box after being called for two many men shortly after the Vipers two man advantage. Vernon would once again get another great opportunity to re-take the lead but once again couldnt solve Kevin Jebson. The line of Cory Kane and the Jones Twins was Vernons best line creating chances all night long, with some good cycle down low both Jones boys had several good scoring chances down low. Adam Thompson with a shot from the point was stopped by Jebson after making another big glove save. Late in the period the Warriors would get a late powerplay, with time running down on the clock the Vipers would take an undisaplined penalty sending Westside on a two man advantage to start the 3rd. The Vipers carried the better of the play in the second half, as Kevin Jebson was the difference keeping the Warriors in the game. It was tied 2-2 after 40 minutes of play. Vernon outshot Westside 20-5.

3rd Period: With the Warriors on the two man advantage, Cam Reid's point shot beat a screened Graeme Gordon high giving Westside the 3-2 lead just 30 seconds into the period. Scott MacDonald picked up the lone assist. The Warriors would try and connect again on the man advantage but the Vipers would kill off the second minor. It was basically all Vernon from here on in as the Vipers poured on the offensive attack peppering Kevin Jebson. Cory Kane with a nice move at the Westside blueline, ripped a quick shot but was stopped by Jebson. Braden Pimm with some hard work down low, was stopped at the side of the net. The Vipers were flying most of the 3rd buzzing in and around the Warriors goal but couldnt beat Kevin Jebson who looked very solid. Cole Ikkala thought he had tied the game after beating Jebson high but the goal was waived off after Kris Hartley called off the goal after the whistle was blowen. The Vipers were robbed on this play after a srum in the Warriors crease, with the puck still loose in front, Hartley blew the play dead, just before Ikkala beat Jebson. The Vipers bench was very unhappy with the call. Vernon would get the next three powerplays after the Warriors got into penalty trouble, Kevin Jebson was give a ten minute misconduct after saying something to Hartley after one of the Warriors penalties. Vernon moved the puck well on the man advantage getting some good chances but once again couldnt beat Jebson. Kellen Jones was stopped on the door step on a good play down low. Kevin Kraus come very close to tying the game after ringing a shot from the point off the post. Give the Vipers credit they played hard, getting many quality chances but couldnt beat Jebson as the Warriors killed off all three minors. Dylan Walchuk looked very dangerous in the 3rd, making some unreal moves getting some good chances. This period was all Vernon and it paid off after some nice three way passing, Connor & Kellen Jones setup Cory Kane who beat Jebson in close at 16:12 to tie the game 3-3. Dylan Walchuck come close to putting Vernon ahead in the final two minutes. In the final minute and a half Westside forechecked the Vipers deep in their own end, coming up with the puck, coming close to beating Gordon from down low. The Vipers defence was caught running around in their own end in the final seconds before finally getting the puck out, Jonathan Milhouse carried the puck in over the blueline and then fed a wide open Mike Collins who put a nice move on Kevin Jebson sliding the puck into the empty net putting Vernon up 4-3 with just 2.6 seconds remaining. The Vipers would pull out a huge 4-3 victory improving to 7-0 and continue there 22 game winning streak. (Going back to last years playoffs) The Vipers dominated the Warriors for most of the 3rd period. Vernon outshot Westside 19-6.

Top Players: (Vernon)

The line of Cory Kane (1 assist), Kellen (1 goal & 1 assist) and Connor Jones (1 assist) was by far the Vipers best line tonight. This line was on fire all game, buzzing everwhere. These three kids were flying, really dominating down low and in and around the net. Both Connor & Kellen Jones played a heck of a game, both were hit and checked hard all night but still managed to get away with the puck and come up with a scoring chance. Connor took a beating in the trenches but battled hard all night.

Dan Nycholat (1 assist) played his best game as a Viper. Nycholat looked very strong on the backend, played well at both ends of the rink. Was solid defensively, broke up several Warriors scoring chances.

Dylan Walchuck was a little spark plug all night, really used his speed and skill in the 3rd to get several chances. Walchuck also took some big checks but still kept going.

Kevin Kraus looked very strong on the Vipers blueline.

Mike Collins (1 goal) Played well for most of the game.

Top Players: (Westside)

Scott MacDonald (1 goal & 2 assists) was very strong up front for the Warriors. Was very dangerous with the puck.

Michael Quinn was very impressive on the Westside blueline. I really like this young man, I was very impressed with him last year. Looked very good tonight.

Cam Reid (1 goal & 1 assist) Another Warriors player who was very dangerous. This kid is a heck of a hockey player, really see's and reads the ice well.

Trevor Bailey (1 goal) Looked very good in the first two periods. This kid is very quick with some soft hands. Had some good chances in the first two periods.

Kevin Jebson (48 saves) Was by far the Warriors best player. Without Jebson the Warriors wouldnt have been in tonights game. Jebson who always plays Vernon tough was amazing tonight making some huge saves. Jebson made two real nice glove saves, come up big down low with some big pad saves. This kid is very hard to beat down low and in close, you need to get him moving side to side.

Game Thoughts: (Vernon)

Wow what an entertaining hockey game! I knew going into tonights game this wasnt going to be an easy two points, Vernon & Westside play some very tight checking one or two goal games in past years. Westside gave Vernon a good run for their money but if it wasnt for Kevin Jebson this may have not been a close one goal game. The Vipers who have faced some of the leagues weaker teams over the past two weekends had their hands full tonight with the Warriors. Vernons defence was caught pinching on several plays, wich resulted in an odd man rush. The Vipers had troubles at times defensively in their own end. Up front as all three periods went on the Vipers seemed to get better and carry the edge in play. Scoring just one powerplay goal the Vipers had some great opportunities with the man advantage but couldnt take advantage. With four minutes remaining the Vipers unbeaten season was close to coming to an end, but give this team full credit for not giving up and battling hard right till the end coming back with two late 3rd period goals. The Vipers now at 7-0 and on a 22 game winning streak (going back to last years playoffs) look very strong so early into the season. Not all four Vernon lines looked or played well but it just goes to show you how much depth this team has up front, if one line isnt getting it done, another line will take over. Tonight was by far the Vipers toughest game of the season.

Game Thoughts: (Westside)

The Warriors showed spirts of being a strong hockey team but couldnt compete for a full 60 minutes. Westside seemed to fair well against Vernon in the first half of two of the three periods but couldnt keep that up for the full 20 minutes of each period. The Warriors did change things up a little in the 2nd period, forechecking and attacking the Vipers d-men, wich resulted in a few turnovers. I noticed Westside dosnt like to shoot alot, they move the puck well, but look for the perfect setup. The Warriors are a young club with a ton of speed and some skilled kids up front and have solid goaltending with Kevin Jebson. But you have to wonder where this team would be without Jebson? Five on five and the first half of the first two periods and the Warriors are right their, they just need to try and do that for a full 20 minutes. The Warriors have a good powerplay. This was one if not the biggest crowd for a Vernon-Westside game, great to see! Good atmosphere tonight, in past years, its been half empty and no atmosphere at all.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Darrin Robak
Rob Short (Injured)
Patrick McGillis
Erik Soderlund

Westside:

Jason Nash
Justin Bertow
Darren Gillen

3 Stars:

1st Star: Kevin Jebson (48 saves)
2nd Star: Connor Jones (1 assist)
3rd Star: Cam Reid (1 goal & 1 assist)
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(Game Preview) Vernon @ Westside:




Vernon (6-0-0-0) @ Westside (5-2-0-0)

Last Game Played:

Saturday September 26th Vernon defeated Williams Lake 5-1
Sunday September 27th Westside defeated Quesnel 2-1

Tonight is the first regular season meeting of the season between the defending Royal Bank Cup Champion Vernon Vipers & the Westside Warriors. Both teams faced off against one another in a home and home series during the pre season wich Vernon won 6-3 & 4-3. The Vipers are playing just their third road game of the season, while the Warriors are playing their fourth home game of the season and are on a seven game home stand. You can listen to tonights game live with Todd Miller at 6:45pm on 107.5 Kiss FM Visit my Blog after tonights game for my game recap.

Let’s take a look at the Vernon Vipers:

The Vipers currently sit in 2nd place in the Interior Division Standings, two points back of the Division leading Penticton Vees (7-2) Vernon improved its record to 6-0 Saturday night with a 5-1 victory over the Williams Lake Timberwolves. Going back to Game six of last years BCHL Finals the Vipers have now won 21 straight games including the pre season. This weekend is going to be a true test for Vernon after facing some of the leagues weaker teams over the past two weekends. The Vipers come into this weekends action facing three top clubs. (Westside, Penticton & Burnaby) The Vipers who are 2-0 on the road this young BCHL season, will have to be ready tonight as the Warriors always play Vernon tough at Royal Le Page Place (3-0 at home). Tonights game should have a playoff atmosphere as both teams don’t like one another, with some very spirited games taking place in years past. The Vipers are going to have to try and get a lot of pucks and traffic towards veteran goaltender, Kevin Jebson who always plays well against Vernon is very good down low. The Vipers have four solid lines with a lot of depth up front, wich has scored twenty six goals this season. After losing veteran d-men, Kyle Bigos, Cameron Brodie, Mike Leidl & Cody Ikkala fans were wondering how solid Vernons defence would be this season. Well so far the Vipers backend has looked very solid with the likes of Captain Kevin Kraus, Adam Thompson, Steven Weinstein, Nick Amies Garrett Noonan & Dan Nycholat. Veteran goaltender, Graeme Gordon has been nothing but spectacular between the pipes as the Vipers have surrended a league best eight goals against. No word on veteran forward Rob Short. Short who has been out of the lineup, was hampered by a compression cut he sustained in the season opener against Salmon Arm.

Players To Watch:

Mike Collins (4-6-10)
Braden Pimm (1-7-8)
Dylan Walchuk (2-6-8)
Jonathan Milhouse (4-3-7)
Cory Kane (5-1-6)
Cole Ikkala (2-3-5)
Dan Nycholat (0-5-5)
Connor Jones (1-4-5)
Kevin Kraus (1-3-4)
Kellen Jones (0-4-4)
Adam Thompson (1-3-4)
Graeme Gordon (5-0 Record-1 Shutout-1.39 GAA)

Let’s take a look at the Westside Warriors:

The Warriors currently sit in 3rd place in the Interior Division standings two points back of the 2nd place Vernon Vipers (6-0). Westside plays their next seven straight games at home, tonight is the third of seven at Royal Le Page Place where the Warriors are 3-0. Westside is coming off a 2-1 victory over the Quesnel Millionaires Sunday and have now won two straight. Gone is former Head Coach Mark Howell, who left the hockey club after last year for a job with the University Of Calgary. Darren Yopyk is the new Warriors bench boss after being an Assistant Coach with Merrimack College. The Warriors have scored thirty one goals, wich is second in the Interior Division. Westside has given up twenty goals wich is 3rd in the Division. Westside has gone with just four 20 year olds so far this young season. (Trevor Bailey, Brendan Ellis, Joel Woznikoski, & Kevin Jebson) If Westside wants to become the first team this season to defeat the defending National Champs, they are going to have to try and shutdown all four lines, Vernon’s speed and depth up front is very dangerous. The Warriors are also going to have to try and get a lot of pucks and traffic in and around Graeme Gordon who is 5-0 with a sparkling 1.39 GAA Super pests Trevor Bailey and Joel Woznikoski do a great job at suckering guys into taking penalties, both these two veterans always are trying to stir things up against the Vipers & will have to try and get the Vipers off their game once again.

Key Returnees: F Trevor Bailey (20-39-59), C Cam Reid (12-28-40), D Michael Quinn (6-17-23) and G Kevin Jebson (.909 save percentage). Reid was drafted by Nashville in the summer while Bailey should step up his offence in his third and final year with the Warriors. Quinn led the Warriors in playoff scoring and Jebson is a workhorse.

ROOKIE SENSATIONS: F Colton Sissons won’t turn 16 until November but should see considerable time coming out of the Vancouver Giants program. D Izaak Berglund is an offensive blueliner already committed to college while local Max French has made the jump from major midget.

STRENGTHS: As a 20-year-old, Jebson should give the Warriors a chance to win most nights, while a solid group of returning second-year players provides the Warriors with good depth. Reid’s return gives the Warriors a big (6-foot-3), talented centre.

COACH’S QUOTE: Darren Yopyk enters his first year with the Warriors: “I like our depth up front, I think we have four lines we can roll. We have experience on defence and I think our goalie is amongst the best in the league for sure.”

Westside has been fairly quiet in the trading department so far this young season. Since the start of September the Warriors have pulled off just one move.

04-Sep-09 The Westside Warriors Hockey Club transfer the playing rights of Jeff Lorenz to the Flynn Flon Bombers of the SJHL in exchange for the playing rights of Cole Wilson.

Players To Watch:

Trevor Bailey (4-6-10)
Grayson Downing (3-7-10)
Cam Reid 3-7-10)
Tyler Krause (5-4-9)
Scott MacDonald (4-4-8)
Brendan Ellis (3-5-8)
Kyle Singleton (2-4-6)
Joel Woznikoski (0-3-3)
Michael Quinn (1-2-3)
Kevin Jebson (5-2 Record-2.87 GAA)

Heres a look at last year's season series:

September 12th @ Westside: Vernon wins 4-2

Cory Kane & Captain Chris Crowell lead the Vipers victory with two pts each. Andrew Hammond makes 31 saves for the win. This was Vernons 2nd win ever in Westside.September 19th @ Vernon: Vernon wins 3-1Kevin Jebson looked shaky between the pipes, allowing three goals in the loss. Mike Collins, Cory Kane (2 pts) and Adam Thompson lead the Vipers scoring.


September 19th @ Vernon: Vernon wins 3-1

Vernon would go up 3-0 on goals from, Cory Kane, Adam Thompson & Mike Collins taking a 3-0 leasd into the 3rd period. Garrett Watson’s powerplay goal in the 3rd was the lone goal of the period as the Vipers defeated the Warriors 3-1. Andrew Hammond collected the win, while Kevin Jebson took the loss.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=573391

October 10th @ Vernon: Vernon wins 2-1

The Warriors would score first with a goal from Michael Quinn but the Vipers would score in the 3rd with a goal from Ryan Santana on the powerplay to give Vernon the 2-1 win. Andrew Hammond makes 25 saves for the win, while Kevin Jebson made 28 saves in the loss.


October 24th @ Vernon: Westside wins 5-2

The Vipers didn’t look good all night in a disappointing 5-2 loss. Garrett Watson lead the way with three pts, Justin Schultz & Ron Kelly collected two pts each in the victory. Kevin Jebson made 26 saves for the win.


November 15th @ Westside: Vernon wins 4-1

Mike Collins, Braden Pimm & Chris Crowell all lead the Vipers with two pts each, while Graeme Gordon makes 33 saves in the win, losing his shutout bid in the 3rd period with a goal from Jordan Gagne.


January 2nd @ Vernon: Vernon wins 5-1

Connor Jones, Cory Kane, Cole Ikkala, Sahir Gill & Chris Crowell would hit the scoreboard in a Vipers 5-1 win over the Warriors. Westside;s loan goal would come from, Justin Schultz. Vernon outshot Westside 38-24. Former Burnaby Express goaltender Kevin Jebson took the loss, while former Surrey Eagle & Westside Warrior goaltender, Andrew Hammond took the win between the pipes for the Vipers.


February 7th @ Westside: Westside wins 4-1

Grayson Downing opened the scoring for the Warriors just 2:14 into the game but Kyle Bigos would reply just three minutes later to tie the game on the powerplay. This would be all the scoring from the Vipers as Westside would score the next three goals skating away with the 4-1 win. Vernon played the night before in Trail, with the team already down with the flu, getting home at 4:30am and then having to jump back on the bus for the trip up the highway to Westside, didn’t make it any easier on the hockey club. It showed on the ice as the Vipers looked tired and out hustled for most of the night. Chad Gehon on the powerplay, and Quinn Gould rounded out the scoring in the 2nd period before Jordan Gagne put the game away on another powerplay goal early into the 3rd period. The Vipers played most of the final two periods shorthanded. Late in the game things got interesting as Mark Howell called a time out while the Warriors were on a two man advantage. With the teams top powerplay unit on the ice, the Warriors rested there top unit sending them back out to finish off the two man advantage. This didn’t sit well with Mark Ferner and the Vipers as comments were said after tonights game, as well as talk around the league coming from other teams & fans. Andrew Hammond took the loss, making 31 saves. Kevin Jebson made 29 saves picking up the win.

http://www.bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=573788

February 20th @ Westside: Westside wins 4-3

Michael Quinn’s shorthanded goal at 18:17 of the 3rd period was the game winner as the Warriors defeated the Vipers 5-4 for the second straight game. Trevor Bailey on the powerplay at 5:06 of the 1st period opened the scoring. Adam Thompson and Sahir Gill would score to give Vernon the lead after 20 minutes of play. Michael Quinn with his 2nd of the night just 49 seconds into the 2nd period tied the game 2-2. Sahir Gill with his 2nd goal of the night gave Vernon the lead once again, before Alex Grieve tied the game for the Warriors heading into the final period. It was Quinn’s 2nd of the night shorthanded wich was the game winner. Kevin Jebson made 32 saves to pick up the win, while Graeme Gordon made 27 saves taking the loss.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=573824&link=bchl

Here’s a look at the two exhibition games this year:

September 2nd @ Vernon: Vernon wins 6-3

Cole Ikkala, Connor Jones, Kellen Jones, Drew George and Dylan Walchuk scored for the Vipers. Shawn Hochhausen scored once for Westside. Graeme Gordon picked up the win, while Michael Smith took the loss.

http://vipersdiehardfan.blogspot.com/2009/09/vernon-6-westside-3-exibition.html

September 3rd @ Westside: Vernon wins 4-3

Braden Pimm with 2 goals, & Mike Collins with 2 assists was Vernon’s top point getters. Graeme Gordon picked up the win. Trevor Bailey & Grayson Downing with a goal each. Vernon product Chris Kingdom made 26 saves taking the loss.

http://vipersdiehardfan.blogspot.com/2009/09/was-at-tonights-bchl-exibition-game-as.html

Here's a look at both team's rosters:

Vernon:

Erik Soderlund
Mike Collins
Braden Pimm
Cory Kane
Dylan Walchuk
Jonathan Milhouse
Cole Ikkala
Kevin Kraus
Connor Jones
Dan Nycholat
Drew George
Adam Thompson
Sawyer Mick
Steven Weinstein
Kellen Jones
Rob Short
Nick Amies
Bryce Kakoske
Garrett Noonan
Patrick McGillis
Brendan Persley
Darrin Robak
Blake Voth
Graeme Gordon

Westside:

Trevor Bailey
Grayson Downing
Cam Reid
Tyler Krause
Scott MacDonald
Brendan Ellis
Kyle Singleton
Cole Wilson
Quinn Gould
Max French
Alex Grieve
Michael Quinn
Joel Woznikoski
Colton Sissons
Matthew Maher
Justin Bertow
Izaak Berglund
Dru Morrison
Jason Nash
Caylen Walls
Darren Gillen
Cam Gorchynski
Kevin Jebson

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Talk About A BIG Game - It's Vernon Time:

This is posted on the Westside Warriors website:

Talk about a BIG game - it's Vernon time

Thursday, October 1, 2009 - Submitted by John Harding

Oct. 1, 2009

Warriors eager to play country’s best on Friday

West Kelowna, B.C. – Calling it a test and a challenge, the Westside Warriors and their head coach say they are looking forward to their biggest game of the season Friday against the undefeated, undisputed champion of Junior A hockey in this country.Yes, the Vernon Vipers, with their undefeated record this year and a national championship from last season in their hands, visit Royal LePage Place Friday for what proves to be an intense, exciting B.C. Hockey League tilt (7 p.m. start, tickets at 250-762-5050 or westsidewarriors.ca).It may be a case of the Warriors trying to keep up with the Joneses.One of the Warriors’ top scorers, Grayson Downing, just returned from Okotoks, Alberta this week in time for practice Wednesday in West Kelowna. Downing, along with teammate Cam Reid, were among the 42 invitees to a camp for the selection of Team Canada West, which will compete in the World Junior A Challenge in PEI in November.On Downing’s scrimmage team in Okotoks were a pair of Vipers, brothers Connor and Kellen Jones.“They are high-end skilled guys and hard-working guys, especially in the corners,” Downing said. “It’s hard to get the puck away from them and they drive hard to the net. They are just tough guys to play against.”Any friendly verbal jabs expected on Friday?“Definitely I’ll have some things to say to them to make fun of them,” Downing said with a laugh.Connor Jones is 19 years old and will play in NCAA Division 1 Quinnipiac next season. He has five points (and 12 penalty minutes) in Vernon’s six games this season. Kellen Jones 19 years old and will play in NCAA Division 1 Quinnipiac next season. He has four points for the 6-0 Vipers this season. Yes, they are twins – both are listed at 5’9” and 165 pounds and they’re from Montrose, B.C., just east of Trail in the Beaver Valley.Nineteen-year-old Mike Collins of Boston leads the Vipers with 10 points and he’ll be going home to play in the NCAA next season at Warriors’ coach Darren Yopyk’s last posting, Merrimack.Downing (a 17-year-old from Abbotsford), Reid (an 18-year-old from Delta) and captain Trevor Bailey (a 20-year-old from Winfield) lead the Warriors with 10 points each. Downing and Reid have committed to the NCAA’s University of New Hampshire for next season.With all this talent up front, the goalies should be busy. Kevin Jebson (a 20-year-old from Surrey) will start in goal for the Warriors. He has played every game so far for the Westside, and he was spectacular in a 2-1 victory over Quesnel on Sunday. Jebson sports a goals against average of 2.87 and a save percentage of .902 this season.It’s likely Graeme Gordon, a 20-year-old from North Vancouver, will start for the Vipers on Friday. He has sparkling numbers: 1.39 goals against average and a .944 save percentage.Warriors head coach Darren Yopyk has loads of respect for the Vipers.“They’re the champs and they have a great program,” said Yopyk. “We’re not quite there yet, but we’ll find some things out on Friday. Right now they’re up the ladder where we want to be and on Friday we’re going to try to knock them down a bit.”The Vipers, as one can see from the goalie’s numbers, are a tight ship defensively.“They play a very complete game,” said Yopyk. “They’re great defensively in their own end and they don’t give you very many opportunities.”Downing may have summed things up as he stood near the boards before practice this week.“It’s not hard to get up for games like this,” said Downing. “Everyone’s excited about it - I know I am.”This is the third game of a seven-game home stand for the Warriors (5-2). They won the first two. After Vernon on Friday, the Warriors host Merritt on Sunday (2:30 p.m. start).Don’t wait in line for tickets, call Select Your Tickets at 250-762-5050 or go to westsidewarriors.ca. You can also purchase tickets at the Select Your Ticket outlets, at the Warriors office and at the box office starting one hour prior to game time.
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Thursday, October 1, 2009

Johnstone Picks Up First Victory:

Former Vernon Lakers Head Coach, Ed Johnstone picked up his first win as Head Coach of the North Okanagan (Armstrong) Knights with a 5-2 victory over the Sicamous Eagles Wednesday night. This was also the first win of the season for the Knights who sit in last place in the Okanagan Division at 1-8

Here is the box score from last nights game,

http://www.kijhl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=2223&leagueID=5221&gameID=715080
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In The Crease With Graeme Gordon:

This is posted on the Kiss FM website:

Get behind the scenes information with the man who has the best seat in the house, netminder #35 Graeme Gordon. Listen to KISS FM Thursday mornings for 'In The Crease' with the Vernon Vipers goalie to get the inside scoop on and off the ice. The 20-year old goaltender from North Vancouver has spent the last three years in the B.C.H.L, helping the Vipers win a record breaking 5th National Championship last season.

Kiss FM's Rob Abramenko will be interviewing Vipers Goaltender, Graeme Gordon every Thursday Morning with "In The Crease" I will be posting the interviews on my blog. Check out todays interview,


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Jones Twins Back From Canada West Camp:


This is posted on the Vipers website:

Jones twins back from canada west camp

by viper staff Added 2009-10-01

Kellen an Connor Jones returned from Team Canada West's Evaluation Camp and both are excited anxious to find out if they made the cut for the 2009 World Junior A Challenge. We had a chance to talk to Kellen Jones about the experience.

What was camp tryouts like?

It was really great. It was fun and very competitive. Everyone was there to make the team and it was pretty intense.

What is it like playing with some other BCHL players instead of against them?

All the players there are talented and deserve to be there so it was great to play with them and play such high intensity hockey. But we will be ready to play against them in our upcoming games!

Best moment?

It would probably be getting an assist on both gaming winning goals in the two games that we won, it was pretty exciting.

When do you find out if you made the team?

We were told we would find out in a couple weeks. We are both pretty excited to find out and would like to know now but we will have to wait. It's hard to say what are chances are since there can only be 5 players born in 1990, but we are pretty optimistic and hope we make it. Connor and I played really well together and did our best.

This weekend the Vipers play a road game Friday night in Westside and then have two home games Saturday versus Penticton and Sunday afternoon against Burnaby, what are your thoughts on the 3 weekend games?

I think this will be the teams biggest test so far. Penticton and Westside are the top teams in our division with us and Burnaby is the top team in there division. I think it is going to be important for us to get six points out of the weekend, but it will be a challenge.

What should fans expect this weekend?

Well against Penticton I think it's going to be intense like a playoff game. We haven't played them since the playoffs last year when we beat them so I think they are really going to challenge us. It should be a pretty quick game. I don't know much about the Burnaby team, but obviously they are doing quite well and it should be another intense game.

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