The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
For the first time in a while, the Flin Flon Bombers control their playoff destiny. Today and tomorrow's game against the La Ronge Ice Wolves play a factor in determining who the Bombers play in the Survivor Series of the Itech Conference. "I don't want to put anymore emphasis on these two games than any other game," said Bombers coach-GM, Doug Stokes, on Wednesday. "We're just trying to get consistent and as time's dwindling away here. We're down to nine days before the playoffs begin." The Bombers head into this weekend's double-header with the Ice Wolves having won just a single game in eight tries. Their only win was 4-1 on Dec. 30 at home. "As long as we play our game and play tough, I think we'll be just fine," said Bombers defenceman, David Holinaty. "When we play our 'A' game, we're probably one of the best teams in the league. I think La Ronge has to be worried and watch out for us." The Melfort Mustangs helped their own destiny as they defeated the Kindersley Klippers 5-3 on Wednesday, which bumped the Mustang's ahead of the Ice Wolves despite both teams having 59 points. If the Bombers win both games this weekend, that would guarantee a Survivor Series match-up with the Ice Wolves. A worst case scenario is the Mustangs losing their next game against the Humboldt Broncos and the Ice Wolves getting the split against the Bombers to clinch third place. "The standings will dictate themselves. We're certainly not one way or another going to favour any opponent whether it's La Ronge or Melfort," Stokes said. "They're both quality hockey teams. The bottom line is I guess, in some ways we have a say in who it's going to be. We're certainly not going to lay down because it's not productive for what we're trying to accomplish and that's be consistent." The Ice Wolves have proven to be tough opponents for the Bombers. There have been a few games this season which people might argue that the Ice Wolves got lucky. "They offer a little bit different style game than what Melfort does," Stokes explained. "They're obviously a little bit more physical than what Melfort would. I think they're probably a little bit deeper as well. I think Melfort's got that one line that's very very dynamic, in (Jeff) Hajner and (Nick) Vandenbelt and obviously La Ronge's (Dillon) Henningson's a real good player, and (Jordie) Johnston's a good player." Bombers forward Mike McKinna said one of the keys against the Ice Wolves will be playing a disciplined game. That's because the Ice Wolves have the sixth best power play in the league, which is successful 17 per cent of the time. They are two spots ahead of the Bombers. With what's on the line for both teams, the two games should be entertaining.
