Gens wanting to snap skid against Firebirds

Oshawa, Ont., – The reality is, the Generals have been the beneficiaries of the Kingston Frontenacs recent 1-11-0-0 record in their last 12 games, as it may be the only reason the Generals still hold the 8th and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Yes, a big win against the #1 seeded Ottawa 67’s has helped, but disappointing efforts against the Sudbury Wolves, Soo Greyhounds, and Owen Sound Attack have made things bleak.

With just seven games left, the Generals enter Sunday night on a five-game losing streak, and they’re running into a hot Flint Firebirds team to close out their weekend, with six straight victories to their name.

Last night, an injury-ridden Generals squad simpy ran out of gas against the Owen Sound Attack, giving up three straight goals in the third period to lose 7-4. Stuart Rolofs had two goals for his 29th and 30th of the year. Tonight, Oshawa will hope to extend their lead over the Frontenacs and snap a poorly timed losing streak.

Last meeting: Meeting just once before, the Generals and Firebirds last played against each other back on October 28th in Flint, where the Firebirds took a wild one, 8-7 in the shootout. The Firebirds outshot the Generals 43-25 but needed the breakaway challenge for the extra point. Ryan Gagnier and Stuart Rolofs both had two points in the loss.

Players to Watch: Oshawa

Stuart Rolofs: When you look up and down the Generals’ lineup, albeit a shortened one, look for Stuart Rolofs to be the consistent goal-scorer. Recently snapping his longest goal-drought of the season at just four games, Rolofs went out and scored a second for good measure last night, extending his career-best goals total to 30. With Oshawa battling for the post-season, it is pretty obvious they’ll need the hot stick of Rolofs to continue.

Dylan Roobroeck: One of the other few to score last night in Owen Sound, Dylan Roobroeck notched his 15th goal of the season in the 7-4 loss. The big forward has continuously found ways to impress GensNation with his improved skating ability, backed up by his wicked shot. With Calum Ritchie out of the lineup, the Generals will need all of their forwards to step it up, and Roobroeck will be one of those forwards Head Coach Derek Laxdal may rely upon with a bit more certainty.

Players to Watch: Flint

Amadeus Lombardi: The Detroit Red Wings prospect is having a season to remember down in Flint, carrying a Firebirds team that many didn’t consider a contender coming into the season. The Aurora, Ont., native leads the Firebirds in goals, assists, and points with 42, 46, and 88 respectively. Lombardi had two assists in the 8-7 win over Oshawa earlier this season. As the Firebirds fight for home-ice advantage in the postseason, Lombardi continues to march on for 100 points.