The Portage Terriers are in search of redemption tonight as they hit the road to Steinbach for a rematch with the Pistons.
Steinbach defeated Portage 6-1 on Sunday at Stride Place, and the Terriers are hoping to snatch that win back. Defenceman Kian Calder says they are going to have to be ready to compete as soon as the puck drops.
"Last game, they scored pretty quick into the game (14 seconds into the first period) and had the edge over us all night after that," Calder explains. "I think we need to come out strong and play a full 60 minutes. I think that'll really help us win the game."
While the Terriers outshot the Pistons 40-36 on Sunday, they went 0/5 on the power-play, whereas Steinbach put home two power-play markers.
Despite taking over first place in the MJHL standings after the win in Portage, Steinbach now has the same record as the Terriers. The Niverville Nighthawks defeated the Pistons on Wednesday and handed them their third loss of the year.
While the Pistons still have the edge in the standings due to the win over the Terriers, a win tonight would catapult Portage right back to the top. Calder says these games against Steinbach mean more than a typical regular season contest.
"When it comes to the playoffs, home-ice advantage is a really big thing. These guys are one of the top teams in the league, along with us. So, it's going to be huge when we're coming down the stretch," Calder continues. "It's still pretty early in the year but every game is going to matter when it comes to securing home-ice advantage."
One major factor the Terriers will have to be aware of is the smaller rink the Pistons play in. Calder says he's never played there before but he believes they can use the smaller neutral zone to their advantage.
"Obviously, it's their home ice, and we're used to playing on a bigger surface but we're a fast team. So, I think we can get to pucks quicker, and really use our speed out there tonight."
Calder notes the guys in their locker room are ready to get some revenge tonight. They will have that opportunity at 7:30. You can listen to the game live on CFRY.
Tale of the Tape
Record
Terriers: 15-3-0
Pistons: 15-3-0
Team Leaders
Terriers: Daniel Siso (7G, 14A, 21Pts)
Pistons: Ty Paisley (10G, 19A, 29Pts)
Goaltenders
Terriers: Jayden Catellier (2.79GAA, 0.897SV%)
Pistons: Dominik Wasik (1.78GAA, 0.937SV%)