The Peninsula Panthers mark the start of 2022 with a rare Sunday matinee home game against the Saanich Predators on Jan. 2, when they look to continue their good form in Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League play.
“We have garnered 27 of our last 30 points (prior to the break) which is amazing considering how tough our schedule has been and considering how many of those games have been on the road,” said Pete Zubersky, owner and general manager.
This run has included victories against the top teams in the league with the Panthers having found ways to win in different ways. But one element has emerged as a defining aspect of the Panthers’ game. “I have said all along that our team speed is our strength and we have been using it as of late,” Zubersky said. “I don’t think opponents will be able to handle it and it will be a focus in our final 17 games of the regular season.”
RELATED: Peninsula Panthers on the prowl for first; winners of five straight VIJHL games
That stretch started on Wednesday night, when the Panthers hosted the Kerry Park Islanders at Panorama Recreation Centre, only to play them again on the road Thursday. (Scores were not available by press time).
The home-and-home against the Kerry Park Islanders and Sunday’s matinee against the Predators is a part of a six-game stretch in 11 days.
“After that our schedule becomes a bit softer in terms of the number of games per week and this should hold us in good stead as we move towards the playoffs,” Zubersky said. “We are only six points out of first place in the South and have three games remaining against the Cougars who hold that position.”
Do you have a story tip? Email: vnc.editorial@blackpress.ca.
Follow us on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.