VEES 1 @ VIPERS 2 (OT)
A huge point was lost last night as Jordan White left his net to challenge Rob Short in OT. The result of the gaffe was a gift-wrapped wrap-around into an vacant net, and a third consecutive blown lead for the Vees in Vernon. Tough to pin the loss on White alone, as the Vees Power Play remained highly ineffective, the PK was burnt on a single penalty taken, and the club couldn’t bury numerous chances in close as Andrew Hammond picked up his 6th win in 7 games against Penticton this season.
Denver Manderson’s presence in the stands was more noticeable last night than in any other game since his season was ended on January 30th.
VEES @ CENTENNIALS
Big game in Merritt tonight… Don’t say that often!
Expect red-hot rookie Sean Bonar to tend the Vees net tonight. The Princeton bound 17-year-old shutout Merritt on Feb 4th and has allowed just 3 goals against in his last 4 games played. Quick starts are imperative in Merritt, as the lack of atmosphere, fans, and playoff caliber opponent can lull teams into a slumber. The small dimensions also make for a quicker pace of the game.
Could this be the last game the Vees ever play in Merritt?? Yes, but my bet is the Cents stay on life support for another year in the Nicola Valley. Rumor is the Cents have 142 player coming next year as the back end of all the ‘future considerations’ deals made at the deadline.
PUSH FOR 3RD
With Westside winning at home vs. Trail last night, the Vees now must win tonight in Merritt to pull into a tie with the Warriors. Unfortunately for the Vees, their South Okanagan rivals own the tie-break of most wins should the teams finish the season dead-locked in point total.
Both the Vees and the Warriors host the Silverbacks and Vipers this weekend meaning the battle for the right to play slumping Trail (10 losses in 11 games), should go down to the wire.
