After the Buzzer – Vipers Use 3rd Period Flurry to Defeat Centennials

Vernon, BC:  The Vernon Vipers were able to erase a first period deficit to rally and take down the Merritt Centennials by a 4-2 score.

Shea Busch led the way offensively for Vernon with a goal and two assists.  The 16 year old from North Vancouver’s first BCHL goal turned out to be a big one as it was the game winner midway through the 3rd period.  He also assisted on the Hank Cleaves and Isaac Tremblay goals.

“Getting my first goal was a dream come true,” says Busch.  “This was one of many wins to come for the Vipers this season.”

It was far from a masterpiece however as the team was heavily outshot in the first period by a 16-7 margin.  Hank Cleaves had a goal that was sandwiched around two Merritt goals.

Julian Facchinelli increased his team lead in points thanks to two-point night with a goal and an assist.  He has points in all 3 games this season and sits with 2 goals and 3 assists.

Owen Kim had a pair of assists and Isaac Tremblay added some insurance late in the game.

Ethan David was excellent stopping 28 of 30 including a couple of key breakaway stops.

“We found a way to win a hockey game when we weren’t at our best,” says Head Coach and GM of the Vipers Jason McKee.  “We had a slow start, but stuck with it and played better in the 2nd half of the game.”

The Merritt Centennials looked very sharp in the first period.  Zach Losier and Easton Ryan had the Merritt goals.

Karlis Mezsargs was busy and tested often and finished the night with 26 saves.

The Vipers powerplay was only awarded one opportunity and failed to convert.  Their penalty kill was strong, especially in the 3rd period.  They’d finished with 4 kills on 5 chances.

The Vipers will get some much needed rest and prepare for next weekend when they head to the Lower Mainland.