Vancouver Giants drop home opener 5-1 to Penticton Vees despite a strong start, ending their preseason winning streak at Langley Events Centre.
Giants Stumble in Season Opener
The buzz inside Langley Events Centre was electric on Saturday night as more than 4,000 fans packed the stands, ready to watch the Vancouver Giants kick off their season. But despite entering the matchup unbeaten in preseason, the Giants couldn’t carry that momentum forward. Instead, the Penticton Vees spoiled the home opener with a 5-1 victory.
A Strong Start That Slipped Away
For the opening minutes, the Giants looked sharp. They controlled play, created chances, and outshot Penticton 10-6 in the first period. But after failing to convert on several high-quality opportunities, the tide shifted. With just over four minutes left in the first, Penticton’s Brady Birnie broke the deadlock, sneaking a shot past Giants goalie Ryan Tamelin.
From there, the Vees never looked back.
Penticton Takes Control
The second period was where things truly unraveled for Vancouver. Ryden Evers capitalized on a power play to double Penticton’s lead, and just minutes later, Chase Valliant struck shorthanded to make it 3-0. That goal stung even more, as it came right after Giants forward Tyus Sparks rang one off the crossbar.
In the third, Brittan Alstead tipped in another to extend the lead to four before Vancouver finally responded. Ryan Lin, set up beautifully by Torretto Marrelli, scored the Giants’ lone goal with just over seven minutes left. But any hope of a comeback was short-lived—Diego Johnson buried an empty-netter to seal Penticton’s first-ever WHL win.
Coach Burgess Reflects on Missed Chances
Head Coach Parker Burgess didn’t hide his disappointment after the game.
“We had some Grade A opportunities early and we weren’t able to capitalize,” he admitted. “When adversity hit, instead of sticking to the game plan, I thought we pressed too hard individually. That’s something we need to learn from.”
Despite the result, Burgess praised his team’s early push, saying the Giants carried momentum in the opening minutes before letting it slip away.
What’s Next for the Giants
The Giants won’t have long to dwell on this one. They’re set for a home-and-home series with the Victoria Royals next weekend. Game one takes place Friday at Langley Events Centre, with puck drop at 7 p.m., before the rematch on Vancouver Island Saturday night.
The home opener may not have gone their way, but with lessons learned, the Giants will be looking to bounce back quickly.
Stay updated instantly — follow us on Instagram | Facebook | X
