The Vernon Vipers built last season's championship team on stingy defence and excellent goaltending, but the 2009/10 edition of the squad's numbers tell the story of a team that could outscore any deficiencies on their own side of centre. The scary thing is, it's as yet unclear on whether any such problems exist.
The Vipers scored nine goals for the second consecutive night and made it 36 for their last four, taking leads of 3-1 and 5-2 into the intermissions in an eventual 9-2 win over the Williams Lake Timberwolves.
Braden Pimm led the way for the Vipers, capping a hat-trick performance at the 15:56 mark of the third period while adding an assist. Rob Short had three helpers for the visitors, while seven Vernon players — including second star Bryce Kakoske — contributed two points on the evening.
Cameron Hoffman and Justin Bardarson replied for the Timberwolves.
Vernon recieved a 19-save effort in net from starter Blake Voth. Meanwhile, Kirk Croswell was replaced after the Vipers' fourth goal by newcomer Sean Donnelly, who allowed the final five markers while making 24 saves.
The Vipers continue their Northern road swing on Sunday when they visit Prince George, while the Timberwolves continue a six-game homestand on Saturday when the Langley Chiefs visit.