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The win gives the first-place T-Birds 64 points, nine ahead of second-place Soo Eagles. What makes the week all the more significant are the back-to-back games the Thunderbirds have slated against the Eagles, their Western Division rival. The border battle continues on Friday night at the Pullar Stadium in Sault, Mich., and the following night at the Essar Centre. Both matches are scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
“This three-game set is crucial for us,” said head coach Preston Mizzi, in his second season with the Thunderbirds. “If we can sweep, we can pretty well clinch our division and earn home-ice advantage during the playoffs.”
Last night’s game started well for the T-Birds, who took a 5-1 lead going into the third. The Trappers hit back, though, scoring three in the final frame. However, the push proved to be too little, too late, as the home team earned the 5-4 win.
“We let up in the third, but I’m happy with the two points,” said Mizzi, whose club’s 0.821 winning percentage in among the top 10 in the 133-team Canadian Jr. Hockey League, of which the NOJHL is a member league.
Matt Amadio had a big night, with two goals and one assist. Kurtis Barbarie and Greg Sartoretto each contributed with a goal and an assist, while Kevin Michelcavage rounded out the scoring. Meanwhile, in his second start with the T-Birds, goalie Remo Febbraro made 33 saves.
More information on the club, including their season schedule and player bios, is available at www.tbirdhockey.ca.
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