Who's Up Front:
In order to keep this series going, the Melfort Mustangs must find a way to score more than two goals in a hockey game. The 'Stangs have six goals in their last three games and given how close these games have been - Another goal here or there by Melfort would likely mean a different outlook on the series. The veteran forwards for the Mustangs will be relied upon heavily tonight. Todd Chinova, Gary Childerhose, Blake Hietela, Brant Harris, and Kevin Knopp will need to be at their best. A goal from Todd Chinova would likely go along way in order to keep the Mustangs alive in the series.
Who's on D:
Collectively, the Mustang's defence-core will have to play a steady, simple game tonight. Offensively the Mustang's 'D' has struggled to put up points. Harris Tribble and Mitch Berg are the lone rear-guards who have points in this series. A guy like Lee Christensen or Carter Berg could really help their team if they can play well in their own zone, and contribute with a goal or an assist.
Who's in Goal:
Chris Ward needs to steal another one for his team. The Mustang's won Game One because of Chris Ward, and now with the series on the line he'll need to elevate his game tonight. Chris Ward has played well through throughout this series, but simply not well enough as his counter-part at the other end seems to be making that 'one, extra save' per game. The Mustang's success tonight will largely depend on Chris Ward.
X-Factor:
Melfort captain Kevin Knopp. Knopp has two assists in the series but no goals. At the other end, Star's captain Mitch Wall has goals in three straight games. I look for Kevin Knopp to play a very spirited game tonight, and if he can score a goal or two, than we may be headed back to Melfort for Game Six tomorrow night.
Who's Up Front:
North Star's captain Mitch Wall has goals in three straight games. Wall showed last year that he was a playoff performer, and this year he's been 'as good' or better. Not only that, but Chad Filteau has a three-game point streak, Brett Miller is playing with a lot of confidence and you know that sooner or later that Josh Daley and Shay Neufeld will start contributing as well.
Who's on D:
All season Woody Klassen has quietly gone about his business, and has made 'big-play after big-play' down the stretch. Mitch Wall's OT winner occured thanks to a stellar defensive play by Klassen. Klassen broke up a two-on-one and Wall was sent back the other direction. No Klassen, no OT winner. It's just that simple.
Who's in Goal:
I don't know yet. It could be Kyle (Birch), or it could be Graham (Hildebrand).
But in saying that, Graham Hildebrand is on fire. He's stopped two penalty-shots in the series and has won three games in a row. At only 18 years of age, Hildebrand has played with a profound maturity and has always made that 'one extra save' which has allowed the Stars to win the hockey game.
X-Factor:
My X-Factor stays the same for tonight's game. If Josh Daley and Shay Neufeld can make an impact offensively in this game, the Stars have a GREAT chance to win. Daley had a few chances on Friday, and Neufeld nearly won the game in overtime as well. They're close, and maybe tonight they catch fire.
Tonight's game kicks off at 7:30 from the North Battleford Civic Center. We've had over 1100 fans at both home game so far, and I anticipate that we'll reach 1200 tonight.
See you at the rink!
DO.
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