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BCHL  

Warriors set for rematch

The West Kelowna Warriors should be in a better frame of mind tonight when they face off with the reigning BCHL champion Wenatchee Wild.

The Warriors were in the midst of a two-game losing streak when they faced the Wild 12 days ago at Royal LePage Place.

The teams were tied 2-2 after 40 minutes before the Wild scored a pair of power play goals in the third in a 4-2 victory.

Since then, the Warriors have reeled off two straight wins to even their early season record at 3-3.

But, with a one-game-at-a-time mentality, head coach Geoff Grimwood says the two wins means they just had a good weekend.

"It's always one game at a time for me. We're going to have rough patches and we're going to have some good little streaks. It's always one at a time," said Grimwood.

"You win a few games in a row, and you feel good, but that can go away quick if you're not ready for the next guy."

Part of the Warriors success in Chilliwack can be traced to two areas, goaltending and penalty killing.

Connor Hopkins allowed just two goals in the two wins, including a 4-0 shutout of previously unbeaten Prince George. He was named BCHL player of the week for his efforts.

Hopkins will get the call Wednesday.

They also were perfect on the penalty kill after allowing seven goals in eight opportunities over their first four games.

"I think we feel more organized on the ice as a group. Guys are understanding the way I want them to play, and they are understanding how they need to play to be successful."

And, having a full bench helps too.

"But now that we're back to full health, it makes a big difference. You can slot guys where you want them, you can let guys focus on their individual roles. It's made a big difference," said Grimwood.

In the Wild, the Warriors face a team Grimwood says is as good as any in the BCHL. They're fast, and skilled, and he says they'll need to bring their best effort to be successful.

Wednesday's game is the first of a stretch of three games in four nights. They'll host Salmon Arm Friday night in the first game of a home-and-home set.



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