Terriers Start Three Game Road Trip In Estevan
Photo Credit: Simple Shots By Jackie Story Coming In:
After claiming four of a possible six points on a three game home-stand, the Yorkton Terriers now hit a difficult stretch on the schedule, starting with a three game road trip in four nights. In addition, five of Yorkton’s next eight games are against teams ahead of them in the standings, including a pair of games against Estevan. Erik Boers has led the way for the Terriers since they returned from a two week break, having tallied four points in three games. Special teams has been a difference maker for Yorkton, where the penalty kill is a perfect 10-for-10 over their last three games, and even though the power-play is only 1-for-10, it has almost capitalized on several opportunities. If the special teams continue its strong play, then Yorkton will have a chance to win multiple games on this road trip.
View From Estevan:
Ever since Estevan lost 5-2 to Yorkton on December 17th, the Bruins have gone on a roll with points in seven straight games, including a five game winning streak. Cam Hrdickla has been spectacular in goal for the Bruins during that stretch, having gone a perfect 4-0, only giving up three goals, and posting a pair of shutouts. Mark Rumsey continues to lead the way offensively, as well as the captain Eric Houk, while the Bruins continue their charge for first place in the SJHL. With four games in hand on the league leading Humboldt Broncos and only trailing them by three points, it’s realistic to see Estevan sitting at the top of the table by the end of month. The Bruins also play divisional foes in four of their next six games, a Viterra Division that Estevan has gone 15-1 against so far this season.
Facing His Former Team:
Yorkton has witnessed some excellent play from Erik Boers, as of late. The 20-year-old is having a career year with 10 goals and 10 assists for 20 points. The St. Albert, Alberta product has posted points in nine of his past 14 games, including a three point effort in Yorkton’s last outing against the Weyburn Red Wings. Boers also has goals in back-to-back games against his former team, and he will look to add to that tally tonight. A leader by example, Boers is not afraid to do whatever it takes to lead his team to victory. The giant power forward will drive to the net, lay out an unsuspecting opponent with a thundering bodycheck, or make an unselfish play in setting up a teammate. Boers also has some slick hands which he has shown at times in his over-age season. Overall, the co-captain has been an excellent find for Mat Hehr, and he will continue to be a massive part of his team’s success this road trip.
Tale of the Tape
Yorkton Terriers (18-16-1-4 – 41 points) Estevan Bruins (29-7-1-2 – 61 points)
2nd Viterra Division/ 6th SJHL 1st Viterra Division/ 2nd SJHL
Powerplay: 18/145 – 12.4% (10th SJHL) Powerplay: 40/183 – 21.9% (5th SJHL)
Penalty Kill: 152/177 – 85.9% (3rd SJHL) Penalty Kill: 142/156 – 91% (1st SJHL)
Last Ten: 5-3-1-1 Streak: 1-0-0-0 Last Ten: 7-2-0-1 Streak: 6-0-0-1
Stats Leaders For Yorkton:
Goals: Gervais (13)
Assists: Jasper (22)
Points: Jasper (24)
PIM: Norum (67)
Goalie: DePape 15-9-0-4, 2.04, 0.925%, 3 SO