Moose and Stars clash in Galactic Conflict
By: Manitoba Moose Staff | Published: December 3rd 2016
Following a perfect three-game road trip, the Manitoba Moose (10-7-1-1) look for their fourth win in a row this afternoon as they welcome the Texas Stars (10-7-1-1) to MTS Centre at 2:00 p.m. CT.
Last Game
Manitoba got off to a slow start in Rockford on Wednesday night (Nov. 30) but managed to score three straight second period goals on their way to a 5-4 shootout victory. Jack Roslovic registered a goal and an assist while fellow first-year forward Brendan Lemieux scored the lone goal in a seven-round shootout to give Manitoba the win.
Flash Back
The Moose head into their season series with Texas with a clean slate after a forgettable series with the Stars in 2015-16. Texas took all four meetings against Manitoba including a 7-6 shootout affair (Feb. 10) featuring a two-point performance (1G, 1A) by Manitoba blueliner Brenden Kichton.
Playing with Power
After a dry spell on the man advantage it appears Manitoba’s powerplay has found their stride once again. During their three-game road trip, the Moose potted four powerplay goals – including both of their markers in Sunday’s (Nov. 27) 2-1 triumph over the Chicago Wolves. The powerplay was kind to Kevin Czuczman as he scored two of Manitoba’s powerplay tallies. The Moose hope to continue their powerplay moxie as the Stars own the league’s worst penalty kill percentage at 72. 7 per cent.
Texas’ Story
Heading into this afternoon’s battle the Stars and Moose own the exact same records, sitting fourth and third in their divisions respectively. While Texas has seen its struggles on the penalty kill, they have had success. The Pacific Division squad leads the AHL in shorthanded goals with six on the season. Overall, Texas has gotten contribution from plenty of players as eight have registered over 10 points in 19 games. Leading the way is Brandon DeFazio with 16 points (7G, 9A).
Star Wars Day
Today’s game is sure to be a blast for everyone in attendance as the Manitoba Moose are hosting Star Wars Day. Fans will feel as if they left Winnipeg for a galaxy far, far away as the conflict between the Rebel Alliance and the Galactic Empire takes over the MTS Centre. The familiar sights and sounds of a Moose game will be replaced by elements from the Star Wars universe. Even the players will sport a new look, wearing special edition Star Wars R2-D2 jerseys for warmup.
The Manitoba Moose Hockey Club is pleased to encourage fans to dress in costume for the upcoming Star Wars Day game on Saturday, Dec. 3. Fans dressing up should be aware of the policies regarding costumes at the MTS Centre for Star Wars Day.
Fans wearing masks as part of their costumes will be asked to temporarily remove them as they pass through security and when ordering alcoholic beverages.
Props or toys resembling weapons such as guns or other firearms will not be allowed in the MTS Centre. Exceptions will be made for plastic ‘Lightsabers’.
What’s Next?
The Moose and Stars will be back on the ice on Sunday (Dec. 4) to wrap up their two-game series. Puck drop is set for 2:00 p.m. CT. For tickets to all Manitoba Moose home games, visit mooshockey.com/tickets.
