The Vipers outlasted the visiting Montague Maniacs 8-6 on Sunday night to improve to 14-4-1 (won-lost-overtime/shootout losses). That is good enough for 29 points, two more than the second-place Sherwood A&S Scrap Metal Falcons (13-8-1), who have played three more games than the Vipers.
Before 223 fans at Community Gardens, Adam Wight (2), Tyler Doyle (2), Jordan Mayhew (1-2), Spencer Montgomery (1-1), Mitch Gallant and Kyle Doucette found the back of the net for the Vipers. Brett Hogan (2), Isaac Jay (2), Rodney McFadyen, Ryan Kelly and Brandon Gallant picked up assists.
Kayleb Lazaric (3), Luke MacIsaac (1-1), Colby Bruce (1-1) and Aaron Fitzpatrick answered for the Marines (9-13-0).
The Vipers jumped out to a 4-1 lead after the first period, and took a 6-4 advantage into the second intermission.
Grant Grady earned the goaltending win as the Vipers outshot the Maniacs 54-42.
Referee Steve Dyer called six minors, one fighting major and one game misconduct against the Vipers. The Maniacs were assessed two minors, one fighting major and one game misconduct.
