After 4 games on the road, the Vipers were back home last night for their first home game of 2025. The team faced the Sarnia Legionnaires for just the second time this season, aiming to replicate their 5-4 win from their September matchup. They did just that, with another 5-4 win but this time in overtime.
Recently acquired Logan Phillips started in net against his old team. Jak Thiessen opened the scoring at 2:40 into the game. Sarnia responded quickly, tying the game at 7:27. Nick Graniero capitalized on the penalty kill, scoring a shorthanded goal at 10:57 to restore Lasalle’s lead. Sarnia tied the game again at 16:20 but Brody Jones made sure the Vipers headed into the second up by one, netting his goal at 19:02.
The second period was less busy with both teams focusing on defensive play. The Legionnaires took two penalties at 4:05 and 10:48, while Kieran McNally was called for hooking at 9:13. Neither team could capitalize on the powerplay, leaving the score unchanged.
Alec Stewart extended the Vipers lead early in the third scoring just 1:19 into the period. Sarnia fought back, finding the back of the net at 9:11 and again at 15:45 while Brody Jones was serving a minor penalty. Despite earning a powerplay at 17:50, the Vipers couldn’t net another goal, sending this game into overtime.
The penalty- killing unit held strong when Bryce Belleau was called for tripping 31 seconds into overtime. Alec Stewart netted his second of the night and the overtime winner at 5:26. Assists to Owen Findlay and Matteo Vilardi. Phillips, facing his former team, delivered a stunning 48 save performance and earning himself player of the game.
The Lasalle Vipers now rest until Wednesday January 15th when the Chatham Maroons travel down the highway to the Vollmer Culture R.C.
