The Vegreville Vipers kept their recent hot streak rolling, overpowering the first place Hinton Timberwolves 9-6 on Friday night at the Wally Fedun Arena. Landon Kupsch led the way with five goals and two assists as the Snakes moved to 7-1 under new head coach Thomas Tookey. One thing that Tookey has preached since taking over the reins is aggressiveness on the penalty kill. That worked to perfection on Friday with the Vipers notching three shorthanded goals. Kupsch says it was a big part of their victory.
Andrei Zajaros turned aside 42 of 48 shots in net, including several breath-taking saves that got the crowd out of their seats. Kupsch says they have all the confidence in the world in their netminder.
The Vipers wrap up the home portion of their schedule on Saturday night when they welcome the Barrhead Bombers to the Wally Fedun Arena. Puck drop is set for 8:00 pm. If you can’t make it to the rink, you’ll still be able to catch all the action right here on Country 106.5, your home for hockey in Vegreville.
Defender Ryan Drake finished the night with two assists.
Speedy forward Jeremy Gamache takes off down the ice.
Landon Kupsch (#10) is congratulated after one of his five goals on the night. The powerful winger has 28 goals in just eight games with the team.
Andrei Zajaros flings the puck down the ice. The young backstop made several head-turning saves in a 42-stop performance.