Gananoque Islanders confident heading into crucial ‘make or break’ weekend

The battle for a playoff spot in the Tod Division of the Provincial Junior C Hockey league is on the line this weekend in Gananoque.

The fifth-place Islanders play two crucial games at the Lou Jeffries Arena against the Picton Pirates and Port Hope Panthers.

Brian Begbie’s club is currently three points behind Port Hope for the fourth and final post-season berth. They also have a game in hand.

“It’s a make or break weekend, for sure,” said Islanders forward Kyle Casford.

“Victories on Saturday and Sunday will put us in the driver’s seat,” continued the fourth year Junior C veteran from Kingston.

“It’s been a frustrating season. We’re in every game we play but somehow we find a way to lose those 3-2, 4-3 games. We’re a lot better than our record indicates, but lately we’ve been playing some pretty good hockey. We’ve won three of our last four games, including a big win over Picton.”

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WATCH: The Gananoque Junior C Islanders look forward to the season ahead (Sept. 2018)

1:43 The Gananoque Junior C Islanders look forward to the season ahead

The Islanders made some roster changes at the deadline on January 10 and added Ronam Cannell, Colin MacLean and Mackenzie White. In just four games, White has picked up 11 points.

All three players have some Junior A experience.

“They’ve been a great addition,” said 18-year-old rookie forward and Gananoque native Braden Clark. “The season is winding down and this weekend could tell the tale.

“We’re taking it one game at a time,” Clark continued. “We know the importance of these games this weekend. If we execute our game plan and work hard for 60 minutes, I have no doubt we’ll come out on top.”

With three weeks left in the season, the Napanee Raiders have already clinched first place with 65 points. Picton is next with 49 followed by the Amherstview Jets with 44.

Port Hope occupies the fourth and final playoff spot with 29 points. Gananoque is right behind with 26.

On Saturday, the Islanders will play the Picton Pirates at 5 p.m.

Then, on Sunday, they will host the Panthers in that playoff showdown. Game time is 7 p.m.