Crusaders Sweep Vipers with Overtime Win, Improve to 5-0

UPDATE: In a thrilling doubleheader, the Sherwood Park Crusaders completed a decisive sweep of the Vernon Vipers with a 4-3 overtime victory on Saturday, October 4, 2025. This win marks the Crusaders’ perfect start to the season at 5-0, while the Vipers struggle at 1-4-2.

The dramatic conclusion unfolded at Kal Tire Place, where the Vipers faced their eighth consecutive game without a win at home. The game reached a fever pitch when Maxime Ly scored an unassisted shorthanded goal at just 2:34 of overtime, delivering a crushing blow to the Vipers’ hopes.

Earlier in the matchup, the Vipers surged ahead with a 2-0 lead in the second period, thanks to goals from Michael Munro and Brendan Russell. However, the Crusaders clawed back, with goals from Gage Brandon, followed by Ly and Gleb Semenko, who put Sherwood Park in the lead.

The Vipers fought valiantly, forcing overtime when Evan Sundar scored unassisted at 17:43 of the third period. Yet, it was not enough as the Crusaders capitalized on their momentum to seal the win.

Vernon’s goalie, Brendan Gee, made 23 saves but fell to 0-3-2 on the season. Meanwhile, Jack Scali of the Crusaders recorded 30 saves, improving his record to 3-0.

Looking ahead, the Vipers face a grueling schedule with their next seven games on the road. They will take on the undefeated Coquitlam Express (6-0) on Sunday, October 12, at 7 p.m., followed by a match against the Victoria Grizzlies (3-3) on Monday, October 13, at 4 p.m.. Their next chance to play at home won’t come until November 7 against the Spruce Grove Saints.

As the Vipers look to regroup, they have signed Taylor Curtis, a towering 6-foot-6 defenseman from Langley, who is eager to make an impact. Head coach Matt Cooke expressed optimism about Curtis’s potential, stating, “His ability to move the puck and use his size to his advantage will serve him well.” Curtis himself expressed excitement about joining the Vipers, emphasizing the community and developmental support provided by the organization.

As the BCHL season progresses, all eyes will be on the Vipers as they aim to turn their fortunes around in the upcoming matches. The Crusaders, on the other hand, look to maintain their winning streak as they prepare for their next game against the Spruce Grove Saints on October 10.

Stay tuned for the latest updates on these thrilling developments in the BCHL!