The Swan Valley Stampeders have a chance to go 2-2 in afternoon games today when they face the Winnipeg Freeze at the Jonathan Toews Sportsplex. Swan Valley also has a chance to push their win streak to three games, something they haven’t been able to accomplish yet this year.
Ever since the trip to Portage la Prairie for the MJHL Showcase, the Stampeders have found a way to win hockey games. 19-year-old goaltender Kobe Grant has been lights out for his club since taking over in net from Dylan Black (injury) and has pushed his stats to a 3.42 GAA and a .903 SV%. He was awarded the MJHL Recycle Everywhere Star of the Week with a 3-1 record posting a 2.25 GAA and a .933 SV% the week prior. Look for the Vernon, BC native to have another solid outing this afternoon in Winnipeg.
The Stampeders played a very solid game from start to finish yesterday against the Freeze, but still having a bit of trouble staying out of the sin bin. Swan Valley took two minors in the second period and a double minor for kneeing in the third period which could have been costly. The Stampeders penalty killers did an unreal job keeping the puck out of their own net. Swan Valley didn’t get a chance on the power play yesterday as Winnipeg never took a single penalty.
Head Coach and General Manager Barry Wolff has made some changes to his lineup ahead of this afternoon’s game. Darius Makse returns to the lineup and will play alongside Justin Keck and Cody Barnes. Emile Pichette (#11) will get to make his season debut playing on a line with Myles Mason and Adam Ward. Not dressed today are Cole Chauvette, Trey Sauder, Dylan Black and Lare Pahtayken.
Players to watch
SVS – Callum Fortin (6G, 4A), Quinn Mulder (8G, 13A), Carter Cockburn (6G, 14A), and Jackson Betcher (7G, 8A).
WPF – Nathan Driver (17G, 8A), Ethan Raduy (3G, 12A), Rylan Ringer (1G, 14A) and Ryder Ringor (5G, 8A).
While waiting for the game, head over to the Stall Online for all your Stampeder gear. Click the image below to find amazing deals and maybe a special gift this Christmas for the Stampeder fan in your family.
More to come after the game.