CHIPPEWA FALLS, WI – For the time since early February the Chippewa Steel (27-24-5) will enter the weekend in a playoff spot. The Steel look to solidify their position in a critical series against the Springfield Jr. Blues (18-27-8) who make their return to Chippewa Falls since last October. A win in Janesville last Saturday, sparked by a 41 save performance from Ajay White and a late goal from Talan Blanck has the Steel right where they want to be entering the final four games of the season.
GAME/TICKET INFORMATION
You don’t want to miss two of the biggest games of the season this weekend at the Chippewa Area Ice Arena! Puck drop for both Friday and Saturday is scheduled for 7:00, doors open at 6:00. Skip the line and purchase your tickets online HERE, or purchase them at the door for cash only. Saturday’s game is Fan Appreciation Night and Skate with the Steel presented by CVTC following the game! Help us push to the playoffs and let’s rally the valley!
WHATS AT STAKE
The Steel currently have a one point edge over the Minnesota Wilderness who sit 5th in the Midwest Division, however the Wilderness have two games in hand on the Steel. Chippewa received help from Kenai River last week when they swept Minnesota which allowed the Steel to jump into the fourth position. Three of the four playoff positions are clinched, it’s a two horse race the rest of the way to decide who will dance for a chance at the Robertson Cup.
HEROICS IN NET
Ajay White picked a perfect time to play his best game of the season in Janesville to force a split last week. White made 41 saves including a glove save in the dying seconds of regulation to finish off the win. He kept a Jets team that averages just under four games per game to one goal. The players in front of him did not let his incredible efforts go to waste, with just above five minutes to play in the 3rd period, Talan Blanck got lose on a breakaway to break the tie.
PK BRILLIANCE
Special teams have not been the greatest strength for the Steel this season, but March may be a sign of things to come down the stretch. The penalty kill specifically has not surrendered a goal in their last five games and are a perfect 11-for-11 in their opportunities. That includes teams such as Wisconsin and Janesville that have top 10 power plays in the NAHL this season. With the power play contributing a bit more as of late too, the Steel are hitting their stride late into the season.
Stay connected during the season by following the Steel @chippewasteel on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and online at chippewasteelhockey.com.