The Trail Smoke Eaters go for their fifth straight win tonight (Fri) at home against Spruce Grove.
The Trail troupe is also the hottest team in the BCHL over the past ten games with a 9-1 record.
It was a balanced attack that produced the 6-4 New Year’s Eve win in Cranbrook.
Judah Makway scored the game winner and has goals in five straight games. The 20-year-old Trail product has points in seven straight contests and leads the team with 29 points, one more than line mate Evan Sundar, who opened the scoring against the Bucks and two ahead of Jack Ziliotto, who sealed Tuesday’s victory with an empty net goal.
Jason Stefanek is tied with Makway for the team lead in goals with 15. The slick centreman also scored against the Bucks.
Meanwhile on the backline, defenseman Drew Anastasio picked up a pair of assists on New Year’s Eve and has points in three straight games.
This is the third game of the season series with Trail taking two triumphs.
The Smokies jumped out to a 5-0 first period lead while posting a 7-2 road win on Sept 27.
Lucas Lemieux scored twice including a shorthanded marker, while goalie Teagan Kendrick’s 40-save effort included a team high 21 second period saves.
The Trail tender’s win on Tuesday ties him with Kevin Hachey for career wins by a Smokies goaltender.
Sundar leads all players in the season series against Spruce Grove, his former team.
The former Saint acquired in a summertime trade, has a goal and four assists in the two games, including helpers on three of four power play goals the Smokies scored during their 5-1 home ice victory over Spruce Grove on Nov 1.
That game also featured the 28 save victory by goalie Ryan Parker.
While the Smokies are riding a hot streak, the Saints are hoping to open their second half with a victory.
Spruce Grove suffered back-to-back losses to Sherwood Park in a home-and-home series just before Christmas.
The Saints are led by Josh Polak who has 12 goals and 24 points, he also leads the team with five power play goals.
Former Smokies defenseman Brody Juck scored the lone goal for Spruce Grove during their previous visit to Trail.
Opening face-off at Cominco Arena is set for 7 p.m.
