Oil Barons Home Opening Weekend Preview

Story Coming In:

Another tough outing for the Oil Barons saw them fall to 1-2, as Fort McMurray wrapped up a season opening three game road trip. Turnovers were the major difference on Tuesday night in Bonnyville, where the Blue and Gold gave away the puck like candy, leading to a 5-2 loss. The Oil Barons were also badly outshot 43-19, which showed on the ice, as the Pontiacs carried the play through the first two periods of play. Now Fort McMurray returns to Centerfire Place, where they went 15-11-2-1 last season. With the home crowd behind their backs, the Oil Barons hope they can make Centerfire Place a fortress for opposing teams to visit, starting with the Bobcats.

View From Lloydminster:

The Bobcats finished a three game homestand with a 2-1 record. Victories over Calgary and Drumheller were then followed up with a 4-1 loss at the hands of the Crusaders. Ben Aucoin and Dalton MacGillivray are leading the way offensively for Lloydminster, with five points in the three games, while Jack Solomon has played all three games in goals, giving up nine goals and sporting a .921 save percentage. Centerfire Place has been a difficult place to play for the Bobcats, who have one win in their last 18 visits. Lloydminster hopes to turn those fortunes around before they had to Calgary for the AJHL Showcase. 

Stats Leaders For Fort McMurray:

Goals: several at (1)

Assists: Ryan Arnold (2)

Points: several at (2)

PIM: Nordstrom (14)

Goalie: Gratton: 1-1-0, 4.00 GAA, 0.899%