The Vipers faced a tough match up against the Stratford Warriors in the second game of their home and away series this week. In Stratford last night, the Vipers struggled to find offensive momentum and faced lots of penalties compared to Wednesday’s game at home.
Like he did on Wednesday, Jake Windbiel started between the pipes. The action began at 5:56 when Michael Lavigne and a Stratford player both took slashing penalties. Stratford scored their first goal shortly after at 7:06. The Vipers penalty troubles began at 7:15 when Adriano Tonin was sent to the box. Then later at 16:49, Nick Graniero sat for less than two as Stratford doubled their lead at 18:21 on the power play.
Stratford scored their third goal at 8:00 into the second. Vipers had two opportunities on the power play with Stratford being penalized at 8:40 and 11:00. The team was unsuccessful on both advantages. Dante Berolin came into the game at 13:13 after Windbiel was involved in a collision with a Stratford defenceman.
More penalties were handed out in the third period. At 5:11 and 7:20 the Warriors took two penalties again. Stratford’s fourth and final goal came at 11:06. Adriano Tonin received a 10-minute misconduct at 11:06 as well. In the dying minutes of this contest, Stratford took three more penalties but unfortunately again the Vipers power play was unable to capitalize.
The 2024 GOJHL showcase in Caledonia takes place this coming weekend. Therefore, there will be no home games until December 11th.
The Vipers play two games in the showcase:
Saturday December 7th at 2:00 vs the Fort Erie Meteors
Sunday December 8th at 1:30 vs the St. Catherines Falcons
