In its first meeting this season, the boys varsity hockey team gets ready to face the Falcons of East Kentwood Friday night at Patterson. This win would be big for FHC, as it would give them lots of confidence going into the most important games of the season. This win would also put the Rangers in a good position to compete for a conference title. EK (3-4) is third in the OK White conference while FHC (3-2-1) is 2nd after a big win against Reeths-Puffer.

Although these two teams have not squared off yet, the Falcons and the Rangers have played some of the same teams over the course of the early season. The Falcons have fallen to Grand Rapids Christian, Grandville, and East Grand Rapids, as the Rangers have done the same. On Wednesday night, EK fell to Catholic Central 5-1. Catholic Central is a very similar team to FHC, as the two teams have similar offensive and defensive styles. The first meeting between the Rangers and the Cougars was won by the Rangers in incredible OT fashion. The second meeting resulted in a tie, and the season series came to a close.

When EK took on the Cougars of CC, the Falcons gave up two quick goals right out of the gate. FHC needs to replicate this quick Cougar attack, which they have proved they are absolutely capable of doing. A fast and uptempo mentality, and at the same time limiting turnovers is what FHC needs to get the W.

The Rangers have a big advantage that this game is being played at home, but the Rangers are going to need to keep the puck in EK’s zone a lot in order to take control of this game. Both goalies are also going to be key for either team tonight, as one goal could change the momentum of the game. EK has players who can make plays and score, but so does FHC. If FHC’s first line can get off to a quick start and outplay EK’s first line, look out for a second straight win for the Rangers.