Stars - Terriers Preview.

After five straight games on the road, the Stars return home to meet a team that has just started a nine-game road trip themselves. It's the first meeting of the season between the Battlefords North Stars and Yorkton Terriers. Here's is tonight's preview:



Record: 8-4-1-2

Who's Up Front:

The defending Sherwood Conference champions are off to an excellent start offensively. Leading the way so far is 19-year-old forward Clarke Breitkreuz. The former Prince George Cougar has exploded out the gate, recording 19 points through the first 15 games of the season. Fellow 19-year-old Robbie Ciolfi is close behind with 18-points in 15 games.

Who's on D:

The Terriers boast a couple of blue-liners that have the ability to contribute consistently on offense. Leading the way is 20-year-old Blaine Tendler. Tendler has 10 points and four goals so far this year. All of Tendler's goals have been scored on the power-play.

Who's in Goal:

A tough call tonight for coach Trent Cassan. Deven Peters played last night in Kindersley and won 4-3 in O.T. Does this mean we see Warren Shymko tonight? Shymko is 1-2-1 with a save percentage of .902 - Peters is 6-3-1.

X-Factor:

18-year-old forward Zak Majkowski is a player who must be neutralized if the Stars want to win. The 18-year-old scored the O.T. winner for Yorkton last night, and leads the team with 10 goals on the year. If the Stars want to win, they'll need to try and silence Majkowski.



Record: 4-7-1-1

Who's Up Front:

The Stars get a big boost tonight with the return of two of their veterans to the lineup. Boyd Wakelin (shoulder) and Brett Miller (knee) will both be back. Wakelin will help provide energy and some offensive spark, while Miller's offensive ability can not be taken lightly.

Who's on D:

18-year-old defenceman Brody Luhning scored two goals on Tuesday night, including the game-tying goal. Luhning continues to get better with each game he plays in the SJHL, and is fast becoming a fan favourite in the Battlefords.

Who's in Goal:

Alex Sirard earned his first win in the SJHL Tuesday, but still surrendered five goals. Graham Hildebrand has been the most consistent goaltender for the Stars to start the year, but is coming off a 5-3 loss in Wilcox Sunday. Either goaltender will have their hands full with Yorkton's potent offense.


X-Factor:

Through 13 games, Colin Phaneuf has been the Star's most consistent goal scorer. 'Phanner' has nine goals in 13 games and will be looked upon to contribute offensively again tonight. The trio of Colin Phaneuf, Blake Tatchell and Keith Grondin is red-hot and will no doubt be a thorn in the side of the Yorkton defense all night.