The Swan Valley Stampeders have a huge test ahead of them tonight as they host the second-place team in the West Division, and their Highway 10 rival the Dauphin Kings.
The Kings basically dominated the Stampeders earlier this season, winning four straight games and outscoring Swan Valley 16-3 during those four games. Swan Valley bounced back January 19 on home ice defeating the then first-place Kings 5-2.
Dauphin (25-10-1-0) has struggled as of late, going 2-3 over their last five games while Swan Valley has turned the corner and put together a record of 5-1-1-1 and has picked up points in all but one game since the Christmas break.
If the playoffs were to start today, this would be a first-round matchup and that in itself is very exciting. Just one month ago, the Stampeders were on the outside looking in and things continued to spiral downhill as the team couldn’t find any momentum. Now, 30 days later, Swan Valley sits third in the West Division with a chance to close the gap on the Kings tonight on home ice.
Head Coach and General Manager Barry Wolff has tweaked his lineup ahead of tonight’s contest. Darius Makse will return to the lineup and be on a line with Justin Keck and Emile Pichette. Not dressed tonight are Tyler Park (suspension), Lare Pahtayken (injury) and Nicolas Roussel (injured). Ninteen-year-old Vernon, BC product Kobe Grant is expected to get the start in goal.
Players to watch
SVS– Carter Cockburn (17G, 23A), Quinn Mulder (12G, 22A), Brad Fortin (11G, 18A) and Adam Rajsigl (6G, 23A).
DAU – Kaden Bryant (23G, 21A), Colby Jaquet (10G, 28A), Logan Calder (19G, 18A), and Parker Malchuk (6G, 25A).
Tonight’s game is a proud presentation of RBC. The first 50 people who enter will receive a free popcorn and a drink coupon that is redeemable at the canteen throughout the evening. Also, Tracey Markin will be on hand to make a special presentation before puck drop.
Tickets for this evening’s game are still available and can be purchased online at stampedershockey.com, at Patty’s Sports excellence or at the door.
While waiting for tonight’s game, make sure to purchase your Stamps Cash Lotto Tickets. You can purchase from any Stampeder board member, from Patty’s Sports Excellence, Cook & Cooke or the Swan Valley Star and times. You can also purchase by calling 204.281.4255 or visit our site directly at – stampedershockey.square.site/cash-lotto – please use the promo code LOTTO for free mail delivery. You MUST purchase a Stamps Cash Lotto ticket in order to purchase the add-on 50/50 ticket. The draw will take place Saturday, Feb. 5, 2022, after our home game against the Waywayseecappo Wolverines.