Vernon, BC: An undermanned Viper squad scored twice in the middle frame on their way to a 2-0 shut out win over the division rival Wenatchee Wild on Friday night in front of 2089 fans at Kal Tire Place. Jack Judson had a goal and an assist, while Aidan Porter stopped all 34 shots he faced for his first BCHL shutout.
The Vipers came into this game down two players and forced to ice two defenseman as forwards. It was a tall task as the Wild, who are known for their speed, skill and puck possession went to work outshooting the Vipers 17-5 in the first period. The shots didn’t necessarily reflect the way the period went as the Vipers till managed 6 scoring chances on the Wenatchee goal, but couldn’t find the back of it. Aidan Porter and the Viper penalty kill were solid in the opening period killing off both penalties and stopping all 17 shots.
The Vipers struck first off an end wall bounce that was tapped in by Connor Marritt at the side of the net. His 2nd of the season was set up by Jack Judson and newly acquired Landon Fuller. The second period favoured the home side in quality chances and shots as the Vipers really seemed sparked by the Marritt goal. The first powerplay the Vipers received was an important one as Jack Judson wired home a slap shot from the high slot to give Vernon a 2-0 lead. Assists on the Judson marker came from Josh Latta and Elan Bar-Lev-Wise.
In the third, the Vipers locked it down and despite being outshot, kept Wenatchee to the outside for a good chunk of the period. When called upon, Aidan Porter stood tall. The Viper penalty kill again had to come up with a few big kills. The Wild would pull Austin Park for the extra attacker, but some timely faceoff wins and smart exit strategies allowed the Vipers to finish the game off with the 2-0 victory.
The Vipers will welcome the Merritt Centennials Saturday night to wrap up the month of September. Puck drop is 6pm from Kal Tire Place.
