The LaSalle Vipers saw their recent hot streak come to an end on Wednesday, falling 6-3 to the Elmira Sugar Kings in their final matchup of the regular season. LaSalle managed just one win in the season series, an overtime victory in Elmira back in November.
The opening period featured limited offensive action, with penalties being the only calls on the game sheet. Michael Cunha was assessed a four-minute major at 9:35, while Joe Gingras took a late penalty at 17:55.
LaSalle came out strong in the second period. Josh Lepain opened the scoring at 2:44 to give the Vipers the lead. Shortly after, Elmira took a penalty at 3:59, and Grady Spicer capitalized on the power play at 5:43 to extend that advantage. Gingras was called for another penalty at 7:51, and this time Elmira converted with the man advantage to get on the board. The Sugar Kings continued to push and eventually tied the game at 14:40.
In the third period, Spicer struck again, scoring his second of the night at 6:25 to restore LaSalle’s lead. Elmira responded by tying the game once more at 8:05 before taking their first lead at 12:12. With time winding down, goaltender Jake Windbiel was pulled at 17:30, and Elmira scored into the empty net just nine seconds later. A late penalty to Shawn Costello allowed the Sugar Kings to add one more power-play goal at 19:40.
With five regular- season games remaining, the Vipers will look to collect as many crucial wins as possible to secure a playoff spot.
Article: Emma Cicovacki
Photo: Isabella Ruccolo
