Friday's game will feature the defending champion, Combines against the league leading Beaver Blues in a heavyweight matchup. (L: Martin Martinson/battlefordsNOW; R: submitted photo/AJF Photography)

By Martin Martinson

Supporting Empty Stocking Fund

Combines, Beaver Blues tangle for seasonal bash in N.B.

Dec 23, 2022 | 10:00 AM

It will be an all-local senior hockey showdown Friday night at the Access Communications Centre, to bring in the holiday season in the Sask Prairie Hockey League.

The Meota Combines (3-1) will host the Battlefords Beaver Blues (7-1) in North Battleford for a rematch of the 2020 league final, and the first game of the season series this year between the two sides.

Aaron Cadrin with the Combines said it’s always a game the players have circled on the calendar when the two sides meet, as two of the top teams in the Saskatchewan senior ranks.

“We’re definitely looking like two of the top three or four teams in the league so this should be a good telling of where we each stand, and could be a preview of a potential league final down the line,” the veteran said.

On a similar note, Josh Shynkaruk of the league-leading Beaver Blues (7-1) said the players are looking forward to their first game of the year against the defending champs.

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“Meota’s always a good team with a lot of strong players, and I see they picked up [a boost] in goal recently too, so for us matching up with them, I think our speed will be important and our physicality can make a real difference as well,” he said.

In addition to the premier matchup on the ice, Friday’s game will also see a portion of proceeds go to support the local food bank. Full proceeds from every $20 drink special sold (five drinks for $20), will be donated to the Battlefords Empty Stocking Fund.

There will also be entertainment following the night’s action up in the Hotstove (Raptor) Lounge with a DJ and pizza, open for all to attend.

“It’s just a good way for everyone in the community to come out and hang out, with a lot of people home for the holidays,” Cadrin said.

“It’s a way to do something fun, but also give back to a very valuable organization in our community, especially this time of year around Christmas.”

Puck drop Friday night at the ACC will be at 7:30 p.m.

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Martin.Martinson@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @MartyMartyPxP1