Saturday, November 27, 2010

Stars - Bombers Preview.

Tonight the Battlefords North Stars finish off a three-game road swing at the Whitney Forum in Flin Flin. Its the first time the Stars have played in Flin Flon since February 13th; an unforgettable game for all involved. Only one point separates these two rivals and once again fans can expect a good one tonight!

FLIN FLON BOMBERS

Record: 14-11-1-0

Overview:

Mike Regan's team has won five straight and are starting to really come together. Last night at home, the Bombers spanked Notre Dame 8-2.

Who's Up Front:

Six days ago in North Battleford, Deven Stillar was a one-man wrecking crew for Flin Flon. Stillar scored three times for the Bombers in their 4-1 win against the Stars. Stillar has 32 points in 24 games and leads his team in scoring.

Who's on D:

Both Tanner Korchinski and David Roper are in the midst of solid seasons in Flin Flon. Korchinski leads the D in scoring with 15 points while David Roper is one back of him. The Bomber D-core moves the puck well and they are not afraid to block shots.

Who's in Goal:

PJ Musico is the reigning SJHL goaltender of the week and was lights out against the Stars last Sunday. He is 12-8 with a .915 save percentage and a GAA of 3.24. Of course Mike Regan could decide to go with Randy Graham who is 1-4 with an .899 save percentage and a 4.08 GAA.

X-Factor:

The crowd. Few crowds can match the intensity of the Whitney Forum. The fans are passionate, knowledgeable and relentless. If the Bombers can build some early momentum and get the crowd going, they can definitely be a factor in the result. From a players stand-point, Andrew Johnston is a guy who can break free and be a force, and it will be up to the Stars to not only block out the crowd, but also to neutralize Johnston and co.

BATTLEFORDS NORTH STARS

Record: 13-14-1-1

Overview:

The Stars got back on track last night with a 4-2 victory in Nipawin. Special teams were once again a key, and will have to be again tonight. A .500 record is on the line for the Black and White tonight.

Who's up Front:

Colin Phaneuf returned to the lineup last night and made a big impact scoring a goal and adding an assist. He a long with Blake Tatchell and Keith Grondin were not at their best last Sunday and will no doubt want to prove themselves tonight in a tough rink against a good team. Keith Grondin is one goal away from his 20th.

Who's on D:

When the Stars D stay within themselves they are brilliant. One through six they were very good last night and will have to be again tonight. Travis Sparrow, Cody Folstad and Woody Klassen will need to play physical and will need to take away the time and space from the likes of Stillar. A strong game from the D will be crucial.

Who's in Goal:

You win and you stay in. Kyle Birch will go again tonight for the Stars. Flin Flon has always been tough on Kyle. If memory serves correctly he has never beaten the Bombers away from home. Will tonight be the night?

X Factor:

Nothing changes from last night. The grinders need to set the physical tone. The Star's first goal last night was a direct result of the Wakelin, Newton, Franks trio out-working their opponents. If the Forwards one though 12 can play another grimy road-game, they could very well be a 500 hockey team by the end of the night.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Stay classy Kenny! Best coach in the league.

Anonymous said...

Well After Tonights Game In Flin Flon Reminds Me Of A Game I Went To In Laronge Last Year. What I Am Talking About Is Proper Security. I stress The Word Proper.There Was None In Laronge And By listening To The Game Tonight In Flin Flon Apparently There Was None There Either.I seriously Think The League Should Address This Problem Right Now. Hats Off To The Stars For Showing Alot Of Class Tonight.Way To Go Stars.