After winning last week’s game by a 31-goal margin, league leaders Newcastle were met with stubborn resistance from Lancashire Raptors.

But Vipers, expertly led by Great Britain Under 21 star Nathan Salem, took control and built what was to prove a winning lead.

Raptors scored the two outstanding solo goals of the game through Bobby Caunce and Chris Preston. Another highlight was the penalty shot save from Matt Phair.

Latvian defenceman Osvalds Grinbergs deservedly took the MVP for another outstanding display.

Raptors travel to Solihull next Sunday, before returning to Blackburn Arena for a game against Flintshire Freeze on December 5.