After the Buzzer – Vipers Kick Off Second Half With 5-2 Win Over Salmon Arm

Vernon, BC:  Owen Kim had a goal and three assists to pace the Vernon Vipers to a big win over the Salmon Arm Silverbacks in front of 3053 fans at Kal Tire Place on Saturday night.

It was the first time in 13 games the Vipers were able to ice a 21-person roster as Hank Cleaves, Isaac Fecteau, Maks Percic and Luke Pakulak returned to the lineup after lengthy absences.

“We were very happy with the performance, effort and energy of our players tonight,” says Assistant Coach of the Vipers Lukas Lomicky.  “The boys showed up strong tonight and got rewarded with a win in front of that huge crowd.  A big thank you to all the fans who came to cheer them on.”

Anthony Cliche opened the scoring with his 9th of the season set up by Owen Kim and Shea Busch.  From there the Vipers went on to hit two goal posts and a cross bar.

Payton Struck gave the Vipers their second lead of the game with his first BCHL goal set up by George Stavrianeas.  That goal came a minute after the Backs drew even in the first minute of the second period.

Erik Pastro scored his 12 of the season after a nice give and go with Isaac Fecteau and Owen Kim.

Cleaves would complete the second period output with his 6th of the season.

“It was awesome to come back to the team after the break and get the win in front of a sold out crowd,” says Cleaves who has been out of the lineup since early November.  “I couldn’t be happier to be back and am excited to keep it going for Sunday.”

Ethan David wasn’t overly busy, but saved his best for last as he robbed a Silverback in front moments before Owen Kim sealed it into an empty net.  He finished the night with 25 saves on 27 shots.

Cole Cooksey and Jonah Aegerter had the Salmon Arm goals.  Eli Pulver made 24 saves on 28 shots.

The Vipers home stand continues Sunday afternoon when they host the Penticton Vees at 2pm.