Copperheads gain ground on Bisons

The Coaldale Copperheads picked up four weekend points, including a pair from a team in front of them in the standings.

The Copperheads handed the Okotoks Bisons their first loss of the season with a 6-2 decision Friday in Okotoks and completed the 2-0 weekend with an 8-3 win over the Ponoka Stampeders Saturday night at the Coaldale Sportsplex.

With the wins, the Copperheads improve to 71-1 and close to within two points of the Southern Division-leading Bisons (8-1-1) with one game in hand.

On Friday in Okotoks, Coaldale jumped out to a 4-0 lead by the midway point of the second period, outshooting the Bisons 46-29.

Jayden Smith scored twice for the Copperheads. Levi Anderson, Brandyn Howg, Tyler Anderson and Mitchell Konschuk added one each for Coaldale.

Tyler Anderson added two assists for three points. Levi Anderson and Konschuk added one assist each for a two-point night. Isiah Day Chief chipped in with two helpers. Copperheads goaltender Nolan Berner kicked out 27 shots in the win.

Brandyn Howg had a two-goal, two-assist night for the Copperheads in Saturday’s win, while Levi Anderson scored twice and added an assist.

Chase Williamson, Jared Bainbridge, Tyler Anderson and Brant Mack added singles for Coaldale.

Turner Sharp had three assists for the Copperheads and Ty Abbott had two.

Broc Merkl stopped 25 of 28 shots for Coaldale to earn the win.

The Copperheads the road for a pair of games, Oct. 20 in Stettler and Oct. 26 in High River.

The team returns home Oct. 27 when the Three Hills Thrashers come to town.