Penticton Vees goalie Mat Robson summed up their competitive rivaly with the Vernon Vipers with a few words.
“They don’t like us, and we sure don’t like them.”
The two will collide at the South Okanagan Events Centre Wednesday at 7 p.m.
Robson said that feeling brings out everyone’s best game and obviously there is a lot on the line with them being so close in the standings.
The Vees have the edge in the regular season series with three wins in five games, the last however was a 4-2 loss in the South Okanagan Events Centre on Jan. 7.
READ MORE: VIDEO: Vees iced by Vipers at home
When it comes to the Interior Division standings, the Vees, who have clinched a playoff spot, have a 12-point cushion on the second-place Vipers, 23-15-4-3.
“They are not just going to hand us two points,” said Robson.
So what are some of the keys to collecting two points? Robson talked about staying disciplined and playing hard.
“Playing Vernon it’s a game we like to get up for,” he said.
Niko Karamanis is the Vipers best sniper against the Vees with four goals on Robson. Robson has respect for his Viper foes and said they have a few good scorers.
“I mean they make things happen as a five-man unit,” said Robson.
The goalie added if they are not careful defensively, giving up Grade A chances could prove costly. After losing 5-2 in Salmon Arm on Sunday, the Vees want to bear down in the defensive zone.
After losing in Salmon Arm 5-2 on Sunday, the Vees want to bear down in the defensive zone and make good exits. Communication will be key Robson said.
“It has been some real hard fought games. A lot of emotions run through them,” said Vees winger Duncan Campbell. “Guys play hard. You never want to lose to your main rival.”