Stars - Mustangs Preview.

Tonight is meeting number five of the season between the Melfort Mustangs and Battlefords North Stars. The last time these teams met was Sunday, November 7th and the Stars beat them 5-2 at home. A win for the Stars could put them into fourth place in the Bauer Conference, but in order to do so they'll need to solve their road woes. The last time the Stars won on the road was on October 19th in La Ronge.



Record: 13-6-2-2 (Third in Bauer Conference.)

Overview:

The Melfort Mustangs are red hot. They are 6-2-2 in their last ten games, and are coming off two impressive weekend victories against both Nipawin and Humboldt. They've received stellar goaltending, and have beaten teams with strong depth.

Who's Up Front:

Darrell Mann has three players who are all averaging a point-per-game. Jesse Mireau leads the way with 22 points, and is followed closely by Brody Haygarth and Cole Gibson who are both sitting on 20 points. The Melfort Mustangs don't have one line that can beat you, they have three or four.

Who's on D:

Statistically the Mustang's defense-core is underwhelming, but when you watch closer you'll see that the Mustangs receive plenty of contribution (at both ends) from their D. Lee Christensen leads the way with 10 points, and lots a lot of minutes against the other team's top players. Sam Gilbert has had a strong season at both ends for Melfort as well. Add Mitch Berg and Josh Martin to the equation, and the Stars will have their hands full with a gritty and consistent group of defenceman.

Who's in Goal:

Darrell Mann called Charles Corsi his early-season M.V.P. on Monday's edition of the Co-Op Leisure Time Sports Fix. Corsi leads the SJHL in Goals Against (2.52), and is tied for wins with 12. Corsi got the day off against the Stars when they last met on November 7th, and I'd be shocked to see that happen again.

X-Factor:

According to Darrell Mann, Owen Roschuk is the best captain he's ever coached. Roschuk has payed his dues by blocking shots and killing penalties for two years, and now he's finally reaping some reward for his hard-work. The Melfort captain has six goals and 10 assists so far this season, while still being a reliable defensive forward for the 'Stangs. A big night from Roschuk would certainly be a big boost for the Mustangs.




Record: 8-12-1-1 (Fifth in the Bauer Conference)

Overview:

The Battlefords North Stars are 5-5 in their past 10 games, and are coming off a 7-3 victory over the Melville Millionaires. The Stars are getting better goaltending, and they special-teams continue to improve. But the only way the Stars are going to be able to climb out of fifth is if they start winning more games on the road. The Stars have won just three games away from the Battlefords this season.

Who's Up Front:

Keith Grondin continues to be the Star's top goal scorer. Grondin has tallied 14 times in 16 games since arriving to the Battlefords from Dauphin. He scored twice for the Stars against Melville, and could once again be poised for a big game against Melfort.

Who's on D:

The Battlefords North Stars have four defenceman who have reached double-digits in scoring. Woody Klassen, Brody Luhning, Chris Neurauter and Cody Folstad have chipped in nicely from the back-end. That being said, it's important for these offensive-minded players to pick their moments carefully tonight against a fast-skating Mustang's team that can burn you if you make mistakes.

Who's in Goal:

Kyle Birch was the winner on Saturday night, which makes him the favorite (in my mind) to get the call tonight against Melfort. But Alex Sirard beat Melfort on the November 7th and could be in line for another shot - And Graham Hildebrand has always given Melfort a tough-time. I don't think Ken Pearson can really go wrong with either three in tonight's game.

X-Factor:

Travis Cech has been a great addition to the Stars. The 20-year-old has scored five goals, and has seven points through six games with the team. He's provided the Stars with more grit, and some experience and is finally getting a chance to show some offensive skill. If he can continue his offensive pace tonight in Melfort, the Stars will be in good shape.


Tonight's broadcast kicks off at 7:15 from the Northern Lights Palace in Melfort. Matt Ryan will join me in Melfort for the call. Looking forward to chatting with you tonight.