Just call him captain clutch.
Fifth year veteran defenceman Connor Elliott scored his first goal of the postseason for the Vernon Vipers in overtime to break a 2-2 deadlock and give them their first win of the best-of-seven BCHL series against the Penticton Vees.
The win avoided a sweep by the hands of the Vees, and forced a game five back in Penticton on Friday night.
Vernon was down 2-0 after 20 minutes, as Connor MacPherson and Matthew Biotti scored for Penticton.MacPherson had a chance to nab his second of the night with a penalty shot, by Vipers goaltender Ethan David shut the door.
Isaac Tremblay halved the Vees lead with his third of the playoffs, off helpers from Owen Kim and Georgios Stavrianeas late in the second.
Down one, the Vipers fought all third to find an equalizer and finally, Erik Pasrto would rifle one home at the 14:22 mark of the frame to force an overtime.
In the extra frame, Elliott’s shot from the point found its way past the left arm of Vees goaltender Andrew Ness and into the back of the net to give the Vipers their maiden win in the series.
A huge thank you to the over 1800 fans who stuck it out with us last night into the wee hours!! Here's a look at the goal that sent everyone home happy!!
— Vernon Vipers (@VernonVipers) April 25, 2024
Video Credit - Coltan Boomer pic.twitter.com/b17PsUvOWo
David made 28 saves for his fifth win of the postseason, while Ness took his first loss.
Now 3-1 in favor of Penticton, the Vees will be back home Friday, April 26 for game five. Puck drop is tabbed for 7 p.m.
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