Vees Edge Rockets 6-4
Published on December 30, 2025 under Western Hockey League (WHL)
Kelowna Rockets News Release
Kelowna Rockets right wing Carson Wetsch (right) vs. the Penticton Vees
(Kelowna Rockets)
The Kelowna Rockets ended their 2025 calendar year with a 6-4 loss to the Penticton Vees at Prospera Place in a fast-paced Okanagan rivalry matchup. Despite multiple pushes and a pair of multi-point performances, Kelowna was unable to overcome Penticton's special teams' efficiency.
GAME SUMMARY
Penticton opened the scoring early as Louis Wehmann (6) converted at 3:52 of the first period. The Vees doubled their lead midway through the frame before the Rockets responded late, with Shane Smith (19) blasting a one-timer from the high slot off feeds from Hiroki Gojsic and Rowan Guest to make it 2-1 heading into the intermission.
The second period featured end-to-end action and five goals. Penticton struck first on the power play, but Kelowna answered again through Smith, who snapped home his second of the night at 8:55 to pull the Rockets back within one. After the Vees regained the lead moments later, Hayden Paupanekis (11) tied the game at 4-4, burying a rebound on the power play off a Carson Wetsch point shot.
The turning point came early in the third period. Penticton capitalized on another power-play opportunity as Brady Birnie (12) scored the eventual game-winner just over three minutes in. The Rockets pushed late and generated chances with the extra attacker, but an empty-net goal sealed the outcome for the visitors.
ADDITIONAL STATS
Shots on Goal: Penticton 36 | Kelowna 27
Power Play: Kelowna 2/3 | Penticton 3/7
Faceoffs: Penticton 38 | Kelowna 23
UP NEXT
The Rockets close out their three-game homestand this weekend as they face the Kamloops Blazers for the first time this season in a home and home. Puck drop is set for 7:05PM Friday, January 2nd with tickets still available at selectyourtickets.com.
Images from this story
 Kelowna Rockets centre Shane Smith (right) takes a shot against the Penticton Vees |
 Kelowna Rockets right wing Carson Wetsch (right) vs. the Penticton Vees |
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