Game Preview: North Bay at 67’s
North Bay Battalion (26-18-4-4) at Ottawa 67’s (29-23-1-1)
Today at 2 p.m., Ottawa faces off with the Battalion for second time in less than a week, as they try to pick up five straight wins. Sweet seats are available by clicking here, calling 613-232-6767 x1, or in person at the TD Place Box Office.
After earning eight points in the last four games, the 67’s have put themselves in great positioning. Though their ranking among the Eastern Conference standing has not significantly improved, they’ve created a four-point divide between themselves (60PTS) and division rivals Peterborough Petes (56PTS).
Ottawa currently occupies the fifth spot in the East, though their 60 points has them tied with the IceDogs and visiting Battalion. Those two clubs are seated above them in the standings, as Niagara holds one game at hand, while North Bay holds two.
Those stats make this afternoon’s game one of very high importance. Earning two points against the Battalion in any manner today will vault the Barber Poles into third place in the OHL’s Eastern Conference. With Kingston (72PTS) and Barrie (70PTS) far ahead of the rest of the conference, third seems as high as Ottawa could reasonably rise.
The Battalion are coming off a tough loss 6-5 loss to those conference leading Frontenacs on Saturday night. Battalion captain Mike Amadio, a third round pick of the LA Kings, tallied all five goals for the Troops, setting a new team record and extending his team scoring to 75 points (35G, 40A).
He was a force against Ottawa as well, when these teams last met on February 8. Amadio only recorded one short handed assist throughout the contest, but tallied five shots and was 16/27 (59%) in the face off circle.
The key to Ottawa’s 4-3 OT victory versus the Battalion earlier this week was goaltender Liam Herbst. His outstanding play, especially in the third, held the 67’s in the game, as they were outshot 35-22. Herbst has been playing very well as of late, earning two huge Ws over Peterborough and North Bay in his last two starts. Look for him to get the start this afternoon.
Getting Here
Come early and enjoy Winterlude at Lansdowne this weekend! Today, Queen Elizabeth Driveway will be closed for Winterlude festivities. Access to Lansdowne will only be available at Bank Street, with the QEW re-opening after 3 p.m.
You can take advantage of free OC Transpo bus service for Ottawa 67’s games! Your ticket provides you with free transit on any OC Transpo bus starting 3-hours before the game, and up to 3-hours after the game! For more information on transit service to TD Place, please visit the OC Transpo website.
You could also skate to TD Place on the canal. The 67’s are happy to provide a free skate check for you when you arrive at the game.
Where to watch
Can’t make it down to TD Place? Catch the 67’s live on Rogers TV (Cable 22) or listen to this afternoon’s game on TSN 1200.
Follow Ottawa 67’s on Twitter for all the latest info and in-game updates.
The 67’s are back in action at TD Place on Friday, February 19 at 7 p.m. versus the Eastern Conference leading Frontenacs. Tickets are available by clicking here, calling 613-232-6767 x1, or in person at the TD Place Box Office.
