Warriors’ Slow Start Proves Costly in 4–2 Road Loss to Vipers
The West Kelowna Warriors couldn’t overcome a sluggish opening frame on Saturday night, falling 4–2 to the Vernon Vipers at Kal Tire Place. Vernon entered the matchup desperate to halt an eight-game skid, and they played like it from puck drop—energized, opportunistic, and ready to capitalize on every mistake.
Deagan McMillan opened the scoring just 4:26 into the game, scoring on the power-play to give the Vipers an early lead. West Kelowna struggled to find their footing, and a late defensive-zone turnover proved costly as Dmitrii Kubantsev snapped one to extend the lead to 2–0 heading into the first intermission.
The Warriors gradually settled in, especially in the back half of the second period, generating more extended offensive zone time and quality looks. But every push was answered by Vernon goaltender Colton Jugnauth, who stood tall to preserve the two-goal cushion through forty minutes.
West Kelowna finally broke through early in the third when Noah Garthe sparked a comeback bid, attacking off the rush and slipping a shot five-hole on Jugnauth to make it 2–1. But the Vipers responded quickly—Davids Livsics restored the two-goal lead with a shot from the top of the circle.
The Warriors refused to fade. Just 56 seconds later, Garthe struck again, burying his second of the night after a determined play by Ian Alonso created the chance. With momentum and time on their side, West Kelowna pressed for the equalizer, including a dangerous 3-on-1 rush in the final two minutes. But the finishing touch never came.
McMillan sealed the win for Vernon with an empty-netter, handing the Warriors a road loss that was within reach after a strong third-period push.
West Kelowna now turns the page and focuses on a full week of preparation before returning home to Royal LePage Place, where they’ll host the Cranbrook Bucks and the Vernon Vipers next weekend.
