After a 6-2 victory on home-ice Friday, the North Stars are back in action tonight looking to grab a 2-0 strangle-hold on the best-of-five series.
FLIN FLON BOMBERS
Record: 0-1
Overview:
Regardless of the outcome of Game One, Mike Reagan's team showed some positives, and will look to build off of those in Game Two. The Bombers got secondary scoring, good goaltending, and they did not shy away from the physical side of things. The obvious concern from Game One (aside from Korchinski's status) was the offensive silence from Ryan Fox, Deven Stillar and Andrew Johnston.
Who's Up Front:
The top-three from Flin Flon were held pointless on Friday night. Unfamiliar territory I'm sure for those three, who have previously feasted on the North Star's this season. It wasn't for a lack of chances, as both Andrew Johnston and Deven Stillar had their moments in Game One. If these three can get back on track and contribute a goal or two tonight, Flin Flon should be right there. Before the series, Mike Reagan said that "It may ultimately come down to which team's top line is better." It's time for the Flin Flon three to get going.
Who's on D:
With Korchinksi's status up in the air for Game Two, it'll be important for the remaining defencemen to rise up and bring a better showing in Game Two. David Roper put forth a strong effort in Game One, and will likely see even more ice-time should Korchinski not be able to go. Roper had an assist, and was also solid defensively for the Bombers. David Roper is the defenceman that I am going to single-out and highlight as a 'big-game guy' for Game Two.
Who's in Goal:
P.J, Musico has nothing to feel bad about. He did everything he could to give the Bombers a chance in Game One, and he will get another opportunity tonight in the Battlefords. Musico stopped 36 of the 42 shots he faced, many of which were strong saves. If Musico can get some more offensively heli REA'll be in good shape.
X-Factor:
Discipline. I realize that the Bomber players, coaching staff and fans are upset regarding some of the calls and non-calls of Game One, but it's important for them harness that frustration and use it positively. The aggression and physicality is a good thing for Flin Flon, but only if it's used to draw penalties instead of taking them.
BATTLEFORDS NORTH STARS
Record: 1-0
Overview:
Goaltending, A shappy penalty-kill and defensive-lapses were all common concerns for the North Stars during the regular season, yet all of those were considered 'positives' after Game One. Add the fact that they scored six goals, and you've got a great recipe for success.
Who's Up Front:
Last night's game (in my opinion) was the best game of 2011 for Colin Phaneuf. Not only was he crafty, gritty and productive offensively, but he was solid defensively as well. He blocked shots on the penalty-kill, and was able to keep his frustrations in check. Colin Phaneuf can be a real game-breaker when he wants to be, and last night he certainly was. Can he do it again in Game Two?
Who's on D:
With Brody Luhning it has always been high-risk, and high-reward. Last night Luhning was money. He scored the game-winning goal, was defensively responsible, and he did not back down from the physical play. The tandem of Brody Luhning and Travis Sparrow was excellent for Ken Pearson's team in Game One, and they will be looking for a repeat performance tonight.
Who's in Goal:
If not for Kyle Birch, maybe the Bombers take a 3-1 or 4-1 lead in the second period and win Game One. Birch was focused, locked in, and also did a great job of keeping his frustrations in check. We've seen it before from Kyle in the playoffs - When he's locked in, there are few goalies in the SJHL that can equal his ability.
X-Factor:
Tonight it could be Keith Grondin's turn. Grondin had a fairly quiet Game One, and I'm sure he'll want to contribute a little more offensively. If Keith Grondin and his linemates can bring a solid effort at both ends of the ice, the Stars could very well be off to Flin Flon tomorrow with a 2-0 lead in the series.
Game Two starts at 7:30. If you can't make it to the rink, you can hear the call live on CJNB/CJNS starting at 7:15.
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4 comments:
Dan why would FF be upset about some calls and non calls??? Bernard came off the bench and tried going after Sparrow then Oak. The guy is a plug, trying to injury the stars players... If anything I thought the stars should be upset with the officiating...... There were wacks, hacks after the plays . Even after a play they deliberatley crashed the net to go after Birch...... I thought the stars kept there cool pretty well... Your right, when Kyles on his game he could be the best goalie in the SJ... Just remember 2 years ago against Humboldt, I have never seen a goaltending performance like that... Hopefully the Birch of 2 years ago is back..
Haha what a joke. Oak is the plug , and I guess you would think the reffing was in ff favor. Tatchel snows our goalie and we get a penalty. Hopefully the refs let the boys decide the outcome. Ps someone tell weber he is only a linesman.
I had goose bumps after game one. Birch is showing signs of the great goaltending we know he is capable of. It was a great effort by the team overall but Birch's performance is giving us a lot of hope for a long playoff run. I was especially impressed by Birchy keeping his cool when it was obvious that FF's intention is to try to rattle him all night long. I'm pumped for game 2. It's gonna be loud tonight!
I agree with Anon#3. Birch made some great saves and kept his cool as FF tried to distract him from his game. Good job Birch! The whole team(including the coaches) focused on the game and avoided FF's attempts to draw the stars into the penalty box. The veteran refs missed a few on both sides, especially berrard coming off the bench. Did you see Kenny step between berrard and oak?
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