Story Coming In:
The weekend split against Whitecourt was big for the Oil Barons. The win proved they can beat anyone in the league, while also keeping them ten points in a playoff spot. Justin Dumais continues to have an impressive season. The Montreal product was named the league’s MVP of the Week with seven points in three games, while also taking over pole position in the AJHL scoring race. Games against Lloydminster have been tight this season. Friday marks the first time the two teams meet in the Border City since opening weekend, where the Bobcats were victorious 4-1 before Fort McMurray returned the favor with a 4-0 shutout. The other two games at Centerfire Place went to overtime and a shootout, respectively. This is also a pivotal matchup in the North Division standings, especially with the Oil Barons still having played more games than their rivals.
View From Lloydminster:
The Bobcats are a team still looking for consistency. Since the Christmas break, Lloydminster has gone 5-4-1 and only managing one two game winning streak. Sitting in fourth place in the North Division, the Bobcats are trying to keep their eight point cushion on Bonnyville, while looking to catch Fort McMurray and Grande Prairie ahead of them. Ever since losing the league’s arguably best defender in Esteban Cinq-Mars, Lloydminster brought in Ryder Ellis, local product Oakley McIlwain and Tafari Chingwaru (who was recently called up to the WHL’s Vancouver Giants). The Bobcats also added Landen Ward and Alex Levasseur to their forward group. The additions address the need for more size and major junior experience. With the tight standings and a five game road trip to start February, this Northern showdown feels like a must win game for both teams.
Stats Leaders:
Goals: Arnold (26)
Assists: Dumais (42)
Points: Dumais (65)
PIM: Gidney (95)
Goalie: Gee 12-5-2-1, 3.00 GAA, .915 SV%, 1SO
