The LaSalle Vipers came up one goal short last night in a crucial Game 5, falling 3-2 to the Elmira Sugar Kings. After battling back to even the series, LaSalle had an opportunity to take their first lead of the series, but a tough night in Elmira has now pushed them into Game 6 with their season on the line.
Elmira opened the scoring at 8:57 of the first period. The Vipers responded by earning their first power play at 10:08. It didn’t take long for Matteo Vilardi to find the back of the net at 13:16 to even the score at one. The Vipers’ penalty kill got some ice time after Charlie Moskowitz was sent to the box, but LaSalle held on before earning another power-play opportunity of their own.
Tensions boiled over late in the first period, resulting in four-on-four play to start the second period. LaSalle was handed a five-minute power play at 7:25 but was unable to covert. Shortly after the advantage expired, Elmira regained the lead at 12:54. The physicality remained high throughout the period, highlighted by a fight at 14:18. Out of the alternation, the Vipers took an extra two-minute roughing penalty, putting them back on the penalty kill. At 17:01, Elmira capitalized and extended their lead to 3-1.
Facing a two-goal deficit in the third, the Vipers continued to push. Vilardi struck again at 14:05, netting his second of the night and bringing LaSalle within one to give the team some hope of a comeback late. In the final three minutes, the Vipers pulled Jake Windbiel, pressing harder for the equalizer. Unfortunately, they were unable to find the tying goal, as Elmira held on for the 3-2 victory.
The Vipers now face elimination but will return home for Game 6 on Wednesday night at the Vollmer. Puck drop is set for 7:00pm, with LaSalle looking to force a Game 7 back in Elmira on Thursday.
Article: Emma Cicovacki
Photo: Isabella Ruccolo
