BISMARCK, ND–The calendar year comes to an end with a crucial battle for supremacy in the NAHL Central Division in Bismarck Tuesday night.
The Bismarck Bobcats host rival Aberdeen on New Year’s Eve with at least a share, if not outright control, of first place on the line.
Aberdeen pulled to within one point of the divisional lead with a win at Minot Saturday night, coupled with the Bobcat’s loss to Fairbanks. Bismarck has a share of first place with the Austin Bruins at 41 points, with Aberdeen at 40. Austin hosts Fairbanks Tuesday night.
For three weeks, the Bobcats have hunted for a weekend sweep after a Friday night, win, and for three weeks, a Saturday follow-up at home has proved elusive. Fairbanks took a dominating 6-3 decision from Bismarck Saturday night after the Bobcats stopped the top points percentage team in the league the previous night 4-2.
This season’s series between the Bobcats and Wings has been one thriller after another. Bismarck holds the series lead 4-2-1, with a points lead of 9-7. Only one game has been decided by a margin larger than one goal, a 4-2 Bobcat win at Aberdeen on November 23rd.
Filip Starzynski (Warsaw, Poland) and Evan Giesler (Naperville, IL) lead the Bobcats against Aberdeen this season, each with six points. Starzynski has three goals and three assists, with Giesler adding a pair of scores and four helpers. Huba Sekesi (Munich, Germany) also has three goals in the series.
Wings forward TJ Roo has been the most dangerous sniper in the series. He has 10 points on six goals and four assists in the series.
Faceoff is scheduled for 7:15 p.m. The game will feature a Bobcat tradition of special New Year’s-themed jerseys worn by the Bobcats. Tickets are still available by phone at 222-3300 or online at www.bismarckbobcats.com.