The Lasalle Vipers kicked off the month of February on the road, closing out a three-game week with a game against the Chatham Maroons. Earlier in the week, the Vipers faced the top team in the conference, the St. Marys Lincolns. On both Wednesday and Friday, they suffered 7-3 and 7-0 losses respectively. With one full month remaining in the regular season, the Vipers aim to gain as many wins as possible to keep their playoff spot.
Lasalle found themselves down early by one as the Maroons found the back of the net at 1:07 into the game. The Vipers looked to respond on the advantage but faced a penalty kill instead as Zach Vaillancourt was sent to the box at 13:53. The period ended on a physical note as Kieran McNally and a Chatham player both received roughing penalties.
The Vipers capitalized on an early power play opportunity after Chatham was faced with a high sticking penalty at 4:02. Brendan Gouin scored on his former team at 4:56 to even the score at 1-1. Unfortunately, Chatham responded quickly reclaiming the lead at 6:40. Brody Jones was called for two consecutive penalties including a 4-minute double minor. Chatham took advantage and extended their lead with a late goal at 19:24.
In the final frame, Kieran McNally was sent to the box at 7:35 and Chatham added to their lead at 12:17. Another penalty, this time to Adriano Tonin was called at 15:32. Chatham scored their fifth goal at 17:38. The second goal for the Vipers came at 18:59 when Julian Gignac scored his 16th of the season. However, the late goal didn’t change much as the Vipers fell to the Maroons 5-2.
The Vipers have two home games this week. On Wednesday February 5th, they face the St. Thomas Stars and on Sunday February 9th, the London Nationals.
Article: Emma Cicovacki
Photo: Isabella Ruccolo