Mistakes was the main thing that cost the Penticton Vees two points against the Langley Rivermen in front of 1,700 fans in South Okanagan Events Centre Friday night.
Against the West Kelowna Warriors on Tuesday evening, the Vees allowed two goals early in the first period, but came back to win 3-2. On Friday, the Vees allowed two goals at the eight-minute mark, 30 seconds apart to Gage Torrel and Jakob Reichert. Torrell was left alone in the slot while Reichert beat Vees goalie Hunter Miska on the next shot stickside. The Vees would fight back to take a 4-3 lead, but couldn’t keep it.
“We have to have a killer instinct,” said Vees defenceman Chris Rygus.
Ben Dalpe and Brad McClure helped the Vees even things at two. Then James Robinson gave the Rivermen a 3-2 lead when he capitalized on a mistake in front of Vees goalie Olivier Mantha, who came in to relieve Miska, shortly after he allowed his second goal.
Vees defenceman Brett Beauvais tied it up again with a shot from the point that redirected before getting past Brock Crossthwaite. McClure then snap a high shot just below the crossbar giving the Vees a 4-3 lead. His 20th of the season came 7:24 into the third.
In the first period, which saw the Vees generate three shots on net, Rygus said they didn’t play to their speed. The Rivermen played a physical game, but Rygus said “both teams got their licks in.”
Tonight the Vees face the Chilliwack Chiefs, who have seven wins in 27 games. Four of their wins are on the road. Rygus said said they need to win.
“We have to show a sense of urgency,” he added.
