Manitoba looks for third straight win
By: Manitoba Moose Staff | Published: November 3rd 2016
Hoping to add to a two-game win streak, the Manitoba Moose (4-3-0-1) welcome the Cleveland Monsters (3-5-0-0) to MTS Centre at 7 p.m. for the first of a two-game set (Nov.3,5).
Manitoba is on a roll after their weekend (Oct. 28,29) sweep of the San Diego Gulls. Both games were a coming out party for a few Moose players as Chase De Leo potted his first of the year on Friday, while team captain Patrice Cormier scored his first two of the campaign on Saturday, including a shorthanded marker.
Looking back to last season, Manitoba’s record against Cleveland left much to be desired as the Moose posted a 2-6-0-0 record against the Monsters, winning once at home and once on the road. The teams combined for four shutouts in eight of the matchups. Moose forward JC Lipon led the team with five points (2G, 3A) in six games against the Monsters while Chase De Leo posted three goals in eight games.
Shutting it Down
One of the reasons for Cleveland’s three-game losing skid has been special teams. The man advantage has not been kind to the Monsters who sit last in the league, only scoring on 6.9 per cent of their opportunities. Meanwhile, Manitoba’s penalty kill has been sturdy, killing off nearly 80 per cent of their penalties and chipping in two shorthanded goals this year.
Cleveland’s Offense
The offensive wealth has been spread amongst the Monsters roster so far this season as four players sit with six points through the first eight games. Finnish winger Markus Hannikainen leads the way with four goals, featuring a hat-trick against Iowa (Oct. 25). AHL veteran Cody Goloubef has also been steady since missing the first two games, register six points (1G, 5A) in as many contests.
What’s Next?
Both teams will regroup on Friday and then hit the ice on Saturday for another tilt at 7 p.m inside MTS Centre. Fans attending Saturday’s game are encouraged to donate winter clothing items including gloves, mitts, toques and scarves in conjunction with Red River Co-op’s Share the Warmth clothing drive. The items will be distributed to those in need this winter. For tickets to the game, visit moosehockey.com/tickets.
