It’s was almost a carbon copy game four to the game we got in game three. As the Vees shut the door late and take a 2-1 score line to increase their series lead to 3-1.
It was a slower start to the game on Tuesday night inside the Trail Memorial Centre with the Vees having the better chances as the period went on, but nothing like the run and gun show we got on Monday. The Vees were awarded the first powerplay of the night with five minutes remaining in the period. And if not for a incredible kick save by Cole Tisdale the scoring would have started there. Instead we headed to the second period tied at 0-0.
As the game went on it also seemed like a perfect shot would be needed to beat either goaltender. And with just over five minutes left in the second period the Vees got just that. Bradley Nadeau came out of the left corner, cut into the face off circle and found a glimmer of daylight over the blocker side should of Tisdale to give the Vees a 1-0 advantage. From there not much separated the two sides as we went to the third with a 1-0 score line.
The Smoke Eaters started the third period on the powerplay but we’re unable to set up and capitalize on the fresh ice. The Vees however would come the other way once the penalty was over and score as Brett Moravec got a shot away 1:48 into the third to give the Vees some insurance, a goal that would end up as the eventual game winner. The Smoke Eaters hit back as Corey Cunningham was sprung up the middle by Ethan Willoughby at the midway point of the third the revive the Smoke Eaters and give them a much needed jump.
However despite their chances the Smoke Eaters could find that second goal as the Vees shut the door, earning a 2-1 win and a 3-1 series lead heading back to Penticton. Game 5 on Thursday night will now be a do-or-die for the Smoke Eaters as they look to extend their season and play at least one more game back in home ice in front of the Trail faithful.
Game 5 is set for 7pm on Thursday night from the SOEC, catch the game on BCHLTV, Shaw and on the Smoke Eaters Mixlr starting at 6:50pm.
