CHARLOTTETOWN – It’s a big weekend for the Holland Hurricanes as they host the Acadia Axewomen for a pair of women’s hockey games.
Saturday’s game takes place at the Eastlink Centre in Charlottetown at 7:30 p.m., while Sunday’s game is at Credit Union Place in Summerside at 9:30 a.m.
The ‘Canes enter the weekend in second place in the Atlantic standings with a record of 5-3-0 this season, and Acadia sits in third. UNB leads the Eastern Canadian Women’s Hockey League, just two points ahead of the ‘Canes at 6-2-0.
“After building some momentum at the end of 2017, we are ready to get back into action against Acadia this weekend,” said head coach Ryan Maxwell. “There is always a bit of rust with an extended layoff, and I expect a couple of hard-fought games.
“It will be integral for us to be first to the puck, win the battles and keep it simple.”
In four games versus the Axewomen this season, the Hurricanes have picked up wins of 5-0, 6-0 and 4-2 after losing the season-opening matchup 2-1 in Wolfville, N.S.
Hurricanes’ second-year forward Sam Higgins leads the league scoring race with 10 points – six goals and four assists – in seven games, and credits hard work and her teammates for her offensive success.
“I like to bring my best work ethic to every game, and leave everything on the ice,” said Higgins. “It’s been a team effort, but I’m happy to have had a great first half and I’m hoping to continue it for the rest of the season.”
Higgins said she is hoping the team continues its success.
“We’re familiar with Acadia having played them four times this year, so we know what we’re up against,” added Higgins. “If we do all the little things right, it should be a successful weekend for us.”
The Hurricanes will play their final regular-season home games of the season on Jan. 20 and 21 versus UNB, before hosting the Atlantic Collegiate women’s hockey championship in Montague on March 23-25.
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