The Swan Valley Stampeders are set to embark on another four-game mini-series as they push through their 2021/22 regular-season schedule. Tonight the Stampeders will entertain the Neepawa Titans at the Centennial Arena in their first-ever matchup against one another since the Titans changed their name.
The Stampeders and the Titans have both struggled out of the gate this year and something is about to give for either team. Swan Valley heads into tonight’s action holding a 3-5-0 record while the Titans hold a 2-5-1 record.
The Neepawa Titans started the year with a 3-1 win against the Dauphin Kings. They then lost the next three straight to the Kings being outscored 12-5. The Titans beat the Virden Oil Capitals in overtime during their four-game mini-series but found themselves on the losing end of the three other games. The Oil Capitals outscored Neepawa 19-13.
The Stampeders scoring was an issue earlier this season against their northern rival, the OCN Blizzard. The Stampeders split that four-game mini-series 2-2 and were outscored 11-10. The Stamps’ defaulted to penalty trouble and undisciplined ways during their series against the Waywayseeappo Wolverines which resulted in the highly potent offence of their opponent to take over every game. The Stampeders defeated Wayway just once over the course of their four-game stretch and were outscored 19-18.
The Swan Valley Stampeders will need to show up on time to find their way back into the win column.
Head Coach and General Manager Barry Wolff will return his lineup to normal tonight. He will be going with 12 forwards and six defencemen. Returning to the lineup is Forward Adam Ward and Defenceman Jackson Betcher. Not dressing tonight will be Ethan Matchim, Callum Fortin, Jayden Mosiondz and Dayvan Bull.
Players to watch
SVS – Jamie Valentino (4G, 7A), Cody Barnes (4G, 3A), Jackson Betcher (4G, 3A) and Brad Fortin (1g, 6A).
NEP – Will Highet (5G, 3A), Rylan Gudnason (4G, 1A), Connor Brust (1G, 4A) and Mitch Thiessen (1G, 4A).
Game tickets are still available. You can purchase from Patty’s Sports Excellence, online here https://www.showpass.com/o/swan-valley-stampeders/, or at the door.
Kids, make sure to enter your name as you enter the Centennial Arena this evening for a chance to race a plasma car for prizes. The entry form will be located on the table at the front door.
While waiting for the game tonight, be sure to purchase a 50/50 ticket. Our online system allows you to buy from anywhere, anytime before and during the game. To purchase your 50/50 tickets for tonight’s game, please click the link provided here https://www.fundingchange.ca/svstampeders/YUjYhWWcbUSuF4fe