Vipers on a roll

Matt Kowalski was the hero, scoring his second goal of the game, 3:54 into overtime to lift the Vernon Vipers over the Trail Smoke Eaters 3-2 on Saturday night.

A crowd of 1,934 saw the game at Kal Tire Place, the Vipers final home game until Nov. 22 as they play their next 11 games on the road.

Trey Taylor scored Vernon’s other goal as the Vipers ran their win streak to five games, improving their overall record to 8-6.

Former USHL Chicago Steel goalie Reilly Herbst won his fifth straight game between the pipes, making 17 saves including a third period penalty shot.

Next game for the Snakes is Oct. 25 in Powell River.

Four in a row for Vipers (Oct .19)

It was perhaps the highlight of the Vernon Vipers season so far.

Christian Felton poked home a loose puck 3:15 into overtime to lift the Vipers over the Penticton Vees 2-1 Friday night, the Vipers fourth straight win.

A crowd of 3,131 took in the game at the South Okanagan Events Centre.

Brett Fudger scored the Vipers other goal, while Alex DiPaolo was the only Vee to beat Reilly Herbst who stopped 39 shots to get the win.

Matt Kowalski added two assists for Vernon who improved to 7-6 on the BCHL season.

“I’m really happy. Our team has really turned a corner here hopefully,” said Vipers coach Jason McKee. “We’re more confident, and just a lot more tenacious in a number of areas.”

The Vees dropped their third straight game after winning their first 11 games.

Prior to the game, it was announced the Vees will be the host for the 2021 Centennial Cup National Junior A Championship.

The Vipers are home to the Trail Smoke Eaters Saturday night at 6 p.m., pre game on 107.5 Beach Radio at 6:45.