The Lasalle Vipers finished their regular-season home schedule with a 5-3 win over the Elmira Sugar Kings. Just one week ago, the Vipers beat Elmira 5-4 in overtime on the road.
Prior to puck drop, the Vipers honoured their 2004-born players: Owen Findlay, Nick Graniero, Brendan Gouin, Zach Vaillancourt and Logan Phillips. The team recognized their contributions as they played their final regular season home game in a Vipers uniform.
The Vipers wasted no time setting up plays, as Bryce Belleau opened the scoring at just 1:59 into the game. Jak Thiessen doubled the lead at 8:56 before the Sugar Kings responded at 10:38. Lasalle regained the two-goal advantage when Zach Vaillancourt scored at 19:43, giving the Vipers a 3-1 lead heading into the first intermission
Julian Gignac notched the eventual game-winning goal at 6:31 of the second period, pushing the Vipers ahead 4-1. However, a 4- minute power play opportunity turned unfortunate. Elmira stuck twice shorthanded within a 56- second span, making it a 4-3 game.
Despite the second period setback, the Vipers held strong. Connor Chartrand sealed the win with a goal midway through the third period, securing the 5-3 final.
Lasalle will have a week off before wrapping up the regular season on the road against the Kitchener- Waterloo Siskins next Sunday. The Vipers await the final standings to see who they will face in the first round of playoffs.
Article: Emma Cicovacki
Photo: Isabella Ruccolo
