Mustangs - Stars Preview

Record: 21-16-2-4 (Fourth in the Bauer Conference. Three Points Behind the North Stars.)

Who's Up Front:

Now that Devon Stillar has departed the Mustangs, they seem better. I know, what a weird concept. But rather than having one 'go too guy' the Mustangs now need to win by committee, and that approach is just fine with their current group. Forward's like Todd Chinova, Blake Hietela and Brant Harris are all gamers and can all be difference makers. Todd Chinova in particular has looked good against the Stars this year.

Who's on D:

Darrell Mann has made a couple of additions that have already had a great impact on the Mustangs. Joe Babey and Josh Martin have both stepped in and provided some solid support for the likes of Harrison Tribble and Lee Christiensen. For me, the player to watch is Harrison Tribble. He's the power-play glue now that Stillar is gone, and if the Stars don't stay disciplined it could be a long night.

Who's in Goal:

Chris Ward was excellent in his last appearance against the Stars, and the popular belief would be that he would get the start tonight. Ward's numbers are good: A save percentage of .914% and a GAA of 2.73.

X-Factor:

Tonight's x-factors comes from North Star music man Neil Gamble. For the Mustang's he's choosing Gary Childerhose, and why not? He's the reigning SJHL Player of the Week, and has a real nose for the net. If the Stars can't contain him, they're in trouble.



Record: 24-15-1-2 (Third Place in the Bauer Conference. Two Points behind La Ronge for second.)

Who's Up Front:

The hottest line for the Battlefords North Stars is the line featuring Blake Tatchell, Dane Muench and Brody Malek. Muench and Malek scored on Saturday, and that trio were also on the ice for Woody Klassen's goal in the third period. The Stars are going to need solid contributions from these three again, a long with steady offense from the others. The early word is that Josh Daley is out of the lineup tonight due to a cold, so everybody else is going to need to 'sack up' and make up for his offence.

Who's on D:

Brody Malek's game-tying goal on Saturday was a direct result of a fantastic body-check thrown by Dominic Perrault. Perrault is one of those high-risk, high-reward type of players and when he's on, he's great. If Perrault can continue to execute big plays in his own zone, the rest will follow.

Who's in Goal:

Kyle Birch gets the call tonight for the Stars. He played very well on Saturday night, and will look for his fourth victory in a row. With Birch starting tonight, that leads me to believe that Hildebrand will get the call Friday night in La Ronge.

X-Factor:

Tonight's x-factor is again a choice of Neil Gamble, and he chose Chad Filteau. When you think about it, it makes perfect sense. Chad's first game is done and over with, and now he can just put his head down and play. A big night from Filteau could be the difference in a divisional game like this.


CJNB/CJNS won't be carrying the game tonight, but if you do want to check out the game from out-of-town - CK 750 in Melfort is carrying the station. You can get the link via the Melfort Mustang's website. I'll be doing color with Darryl tonight.

Enjoy the game!