No matter their current records or rosters, when the Sudbury
Wolves hook up with the Barrie Colts, fireworks are sure to be
generated.
The heated rivalry begins for another season, tonight, at
the Sudbury Arena as they meet for the first of eight games
this year. Game time is 7:30 pm.
"It's been a heated rivalry for the last few years," said
head coach and GM Mike Foligno. "This year will be no
exception. We want to come out with a solid effort for our
fans. They have some new players and skilled players. We have
to play physical and take the body, but stay out of the penalty
box. We can't take any cheap penalties...they have a good power
play."
The Wolves still have a bit of trouble staying out of the
box. They don't lead the league, much like they did for the
past three seasons, but are making a conscious effort to keep
the sin bin doors rusty.
"It's been better this season," said the bench boss. "It's
kind of been good game, bad game, so we have to get more
consistent with our overall game. We can't take any penalties
in the offensive zone...those are bad penalties we must avoid."
In past seasons, the Wolves have been dreadful on the road
and it has cost the team in terms of confidence. So far this
season, the Wolves have already picked up two wins away from
home (including a big win over London last week), and have been
highly competitive in the games they lost (three). Nonetheless,
winning, whether on the road or at home, is the right medicine
for the club.
"Winning on the road is a great confidence builder overall,"
said Foligno. "If you can win games on the road...it means
everyone is showing up. No matter where we play, wins are
important. The only way to get those wins is by competing hard
and following the game plan. You also have to play with a lot
of heart and tenacity."
The Wolves have been blessed with the solid return of winger
Jesse Messier. The rugged forward missed his first two seasons
dealing with a frustrating neck injury. He has leaped out of
the gates, ripping six goals and nine points in his first nine
games.
"He's earned the opportunity to play on our top two lines,"
said Foligno. "He's answered the bell well. He's got stronger
and his conditioning is picking up. He's really smart and good
around the net. He's not afraid to get his nose dirty or take a
hit."
