Vees get winning start

Photo: Wayne Moore - Castanet

The West Kelowna Warriors come close to finding the equalizer during the dying second of Wednesday's pre-season opener with Penticton.

The Penticton Vees got goals in each period Wednesday in a 3-2 victory over the West Kelowna Warriors in the pre-season opener for both teams.

The game featured only a small handful of players who will factor into the season opening line-up.

The majority are younger players looking to make an impression for next season.

"There are a few guys we liked of course and it gives some young guys an opportunity when they come to camp," said Warriors head coach Rylan Ferster.

"First and foremost they are playing a really good team over there. No matter who's in those jerseys they're playing the Penticton Vees and I think it's fun for those guys to play them."

Ferster said there were some nerves early on but thought the players settled down and had some real good chances, especially on the power-play.

Peter Zhong's second of the night early in the third proved to be the winner.

Lane Gillis and Josh Latta scored the goals for the Warriors.

Both teams are now expected to significantly pare down their rosters prior to their next pre-season game at the end of the week.

The abbreviated Warriors training camp will come to an end Thursday before they host the Trail Smoke Eaters for the second pre-season tilt Friday night.

Ferster said he likes what he's seen in camp so far.

"I like the competitive nature we've had in camp. I sure like the compete level at practice. It was the same at the start as it was at the end," said Ferster.

"That's a good sign for us. We wanted to address a couple of things and I think they have been addressed."

The Warriors open up the regular season Friday, Sept. 11 against the Merritt Centennials at Royal LePage Place.