The Matchup
The UBC Thunderbirds men's hockey team (0-2-0) will hit the road for the second consecutive weekend, taking on the Calgary Dinos at Father David Bauer Arena on Friday, October 14 and Saturday, October 15. Puck drops at 6:00pm (PT) and 1:00pm (PT) respectively.
The 'Birds went 2-2 against the Dinos in the 2015-16 season. Both teams fared well this year during the pre-season, recording a single loss each. With Friday marking their season opener, Calgary will enjoy having the home crowd on their side.
Last Action
Last weekend's pair of games against the Saskatchewan Huskies (2-0-0) are ones UBC will hope to forget. The 'Birds were outscored 11-1 over two games, with Saturday night's 7-0 blowout marking their first seven goal deficit since October, 2013.
While the Dinos have yet to play a Canada West Conference game this season, their 3-1 pre-season record and 17 goals show they are an offensively capable group. With coach Mark Howell behind the bench for his eighth season and 13 veterans returning to the lineup, the Dinos will have no shortage of experience to turn to.
By the Numbers
7 – Of Saskatchewan's 11 goals last weekend against the T-Birds, seven came on the power-play. The 'Birds will have to stay out of the box if they hope to win this weekend.
11 – Number of power-play opportunities UBC has had. They are still on the hunt for the elusive PPG.
Players to Watch
Luke Lockhart (#23, F) – Scored the lone UBC goal last weekend against the Huskies. With four points earned during the pre-season, he is proving to be one of UBC's most valuable forwards.
Nick Buonassisi (#12, F) – Logged the lone assist last weekend, and led his team with three pre-season goals.
Coach's Take
"We are looking for a big bounce back from last week as we move on to Calgary," said UBC Head Coach
Sven Butenschon. "I want to see my team get into the dirty areas where you can find goals. They need to fight through the second and third checks. If we can do those things, we'll be successful."
