The Nipawin Hawks are back in action Friday and Saturday at the Centennial Arena. (Clark Stork/northeastNOW Staff)
Hawks Hockey

Battle of the birds this weekend at the ‘Cage’

Oct 28, 2022 | 12:46 PM

The Nipawin Hawks return to action Friday, looking to snap a three-game losing skid.

The Weyburn Red Wings will invade the Centennial Arena on back-to-back nights beginning at 7 p.m. Nipawin is coming off a heartbreaking loss in Humboldt Saturday. The Hawks were leading the Broncos 4-2 late in the third period only to give up three goals and fall 5-4. Head Coach Tad Kozun said the team has been sharp in preparation for the weekend showdown.

“I am really happy with the way we have been practicing getting our pace and compete level back up,” Kozun said after the team’s gameday skate. “It’s been a good week of practice; we’re looking forward to getting back on the ice tonight.”

Despite the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) still having about 40 games left for most clubs, the weekend is crucial in the standings and playoff chase. Nipawin and Weyburn are tied for ninth place with Yorkton. Kozun said getting four points is obtainable, and the goal.

“Every weekend is big and with the way it’s been going lately it’s obviously a huge weekend for us,” he said.

The teams have met once this season in Weyburn on Oct. 6, the Red Wings won 3-2 in a marathon shootout. The weekend’s two games will be the Red Wings only visit to Nipawin this season. Kozun said the team needs to start well in game one and not get ahead of themselves.

“We want to make sure we don’t look past tonight’s game into tomorrow, so we will focus on tonight and the first period. We need to have a good start, take advantage, and play Hawks hockey right from the get-go,” Kozun added.

Saturday’s face-off is also slated for 7 p.m.

clark.stork@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @ClarkStork

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