Huge third period propels Vipers into series lead

A massive five-goal third period paved the way for the Red Deer Vipers to come-from-behind and take a wild 6-4 win over the Airdrie Thunder on Saturday evening, giving them a 2-1 series lead.

Trailing 3-1 early in the final frame, the Vipers offence came alive with four unanswered goals before the two teams traded tallies to close out the game.

Mack Differenz was the difference maker, scoring three and setting up another, while Logan Linnell and Aidan Wilson each finished with a goal and two helpers.

Brody Kalinowski rounded out the scoring with a goal and assist, while netminder Cole Sears earned the win, making 33 saves along the way.

Matt Thomson, Jesse Fischer and Dylan Wenzel tallied for the Thunder, which got 35 saves from C.J. Wedenig.

Special teams played a big role in this one as the Vipers power-play cashed in on five-of-seven attempts, four in the third period alone, while their shorthanded unit killed six-of-seven Airdrie man-advantages.

Game 4 of the series goes Monday evening in Airdrie. Puck drop is at 7:30pm.

GAME SUMMARY