It was a close game early on between the Red Deer Vipers and Ponoka Stampeders Oct. 7, as the Vipers held a 1-0 lead after the first period, thanks in part to Matt Belich’s first goal of the season just over a minute in. Belich’s game would end early though, as he took his leave after a checking from behind penalty and a game misconduct. He was suspended one game by the league.
Wyatt Watson tied the game at one in the second period but after that it was all Red Deer in the middle frame, scoring three unanswered goals en route to a 5-2 victory.
Ponoka goaltender Nicholas Lischka did all he could, stopping 45 Vipers shots, as Red Deer is now 3-0 to start the season. Ponoka is last in their division of the Heritage Junior B Hockey League with an 0-2 record.
Wyatt Watson scored Ponoka’s first goal of their home opener.