Andrew Shortridge made 46 saves to earn his first B.C. Hockey League shutout and first star honours as the Vernon Vipers blanked the Merritt Centennials 3-0 Friday night before 1,786 fans at Kal Tire Place.

Shortridge has allowed just three goals against in his last three starts – all wins – while stopping 118 of 121 shots.

The two teams tangled again Saturday in Merritt.

After a scoreless first period, third star Joe Sacco got the game winner at 9:47 of the second when his sharp-angle shot went through Merritt goalie Cole Kehler’s pads.

Second star Hunter Zandee and Odeen Tufto added third period goals for the Vipers, who were outshot 46-31.

Christian Cakebread’s Vipers’ debut lasted all of 23 minutes.

He suffered a lower body injury when he fell into the boards at the Vernon bench and did not return to the game. He was seen walking out of the arena under his own power.

NHL Hall of Fame broadcaster and four-time Stanley Cup champion Howie Meeker dropped the ceremonial puck before the game. Meeker is the guest speaker at Saturday’s Okanagan Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

See more on the Vipers’ win in Sunday’s Morning Star.