It was the perfect start for the Vipers on Saturday night as they scored early and controlled the Silverbacks. However, they were unable to sustain the pressure and the advantage through the remaining forty minutes and the Backs were able to chip into the lead then take it with three unanswered in the third period.
The Vipers couldn't have scripted a better start in an opposition Teddy Bear Toss night. Salmon Arm would take a penalty in the opening few minutes and Liam Coughlin would convert his 11th of the season to give Vernon a 1-0 lead. The teams traded chances throughout the remainder of the period with Salmon Arm putting shots on goal from absolutely everywhere. They made one mistake however, which allowed the Vipers to break out on a 3 on 1. Hannoun would score the goal after a beautiful feed from Michael McNicholas with only 90 seconds left in the period.
It was a very evenly matched second period, but I thought the Backs started to get their legs a little more and all three lines were getting their share of ice time. The Viper penalty kill was very solid in the middle period, but a quick wrist shot from Landon Smith turned the tide and the teddies would go flying. The period would end with it 2-1 Vernon.
The Vipers more often than not are able to steer home leads after two periods of play. They didn't take their foot off the gas, but an early powerplay would give Salmon Arm some life and once again the spark came from Landon Smith as he would snipe a shot through legs and over the shoulder of Austin Smith to get the game tied up. The Vipers had a nice response, but it was Adam Clarks turn to shine as he shut the door on a number of nice chances for Vernon to get the go ahead goal. A well executed 3 on 2 rush would result in the Silverbacks completing the comeback as Jeff Kennedy tallied a few minutes after the game was tied. Just as Vernon was starting to press in the late stages of the game, the Backs would get a back breaker from Bryden Marsh as he snapped one just inside the post to seal the victory for Salmon Arm.
My 3 Key Thoughts
1) Consistency - For this team, quick starts are a recipe for a victory, Saturday night the consistent play just wasn't there. In the post game show, Dave Robinson eluded to not having that full elusive 60 minute effort. They were the better team for 20 minutes, but often times, especially in the Interior Division games aren't won with winning one period. The team learned a valuable lesson on Saturday and will look to adapt for Wednesday.
2) Landon Smith - This guy can play. He single handedly took his team on his shoulders and carried them through portions of this game. His quick release was deadly and he drew an important penalty that directly led to the tying goal. There's a reason why he's leading the BCHL is scoring and we had a first hand look at it Saturday.
3) Rivalry - Its been a season series that has been fun to watch. All but one game has been right down to the wire with a ton of animosity and dislike. Neither team has had a distinct advantage in the games and I'm thoroughly looking forward to the two final games.
The Vipers are back at it Wednesday Night at Kal Tire Place as they host the West Kelowna Warriors. The last time these two teams met it was a thrilling 2-2 tie. It promises to be a fun night in Vernon. It's an internet only broadcast starting at 6:45.
No comments:
Post a Comment