By: Ken Oda, minotauroshockey.com
Thanks to a Februrary snow storm the Minotauros do not have to wait long to get another crack at the Bobcats after last Saturday night’s loss. The Bobcats out-shot the Tauros 48-22 last Saturday while winning the game 5-1. The teams will meet again tonight however to make up the game which was cancelled on February 2nd due to a snow storm making travel down route 83 impossible.
Home ice seems to be the biggest factor in the rivalry this season. The Tauros have outscored the Bobcats 14-6 at the Maysa, but have been outscored 14-5 in the state capital. Goaltending has been another theme for the rivalry with Aaron Nelson and Bryan Nies combining for a .920 sv% against the Tauros while Tyler Parks and Ryan Ruck have posted a .931 sv% against the Cats.
The Tauros’ offense has been slumping of late with only four goals over the last four games. During that time the Tauros’ top four goal scorers; Tim Donohue (13), Jake O’Borsky (12), Mason Morelli (11), and Cam Rowat (11), have all been unable to find twine. The Bobcat’s offense however has been feast or famine over the last four scoring 11 goals despite being shutout twice.
For the third game in a row the Tauros will need just one point to clinch the first playoff birth in franchise history. The Aberdeen Wings will also be in action Thursday night hosting the Coulee Region Chill.
Ticket Update: If you had tickets to the scheduled 2/2/13 game which tonight’s game is making up, your ticket will be honored tonight. If you can not make it tonight contact the Bismarck office (701)222-3300 for a refund prior to tonight’s game.