Title on the line

Western can earn IJHL championship with victory tonight while Vipers look to force Game 7

The Arsenault’s Fish Mart Western Red Wings can win the Island Junior Hockey League title tonight on home ice.

The Red Wings host the Kensington Moase Plumbing and Heating Vipers in Game 6 of the best-of-seven final at the Evangeline Recreation Centre at 7:30 p.m.

The Vipers, who have won seven straight league titles and 11 of the past 13, staved off elimination with a 5-1 win Friday in Kensington.

Red Wings head coach Nathan DesRoches said he was disappointed with his team’s effort, but his squad is hungry to win tonight’s home game and not go back to Kensington Tuesday for Game 7.

“For us right now, we’re back at home, playing in front of all our fans, and that’s what makes us successful,” he said. “Last game, we looked scared to lose instead of being hungry to win, but we have already forgotten about that game and are excited to play at home on Monday.”

Vipers head coach Wade Waddell said it’s been a good final between two clubs that are familiar with one another.

“We have the strongest rivalry that’s been on the Island for seven or eight years, but this is what makes the sport exciting,” said Waddell. “Both rinks are full every night, and it’s been good.”

The winner of the series goes to the Don Johnson Cup in Fredericton, N.B., to determine the Atlantic champion. The fiveteam tournament begins Tuesday, April 25.

“There’s always pressure playing at home or on the road, so obviously there is pressure for both teams, but no more than any other game,” Waddell said. “To win it’s about the process, and it’s the little things that add up to the big things that make you a champion.”

A team effort will be required tonight to force Game 7, he added.

“There are certain guys we are counting on, but we are looking at everyone to step up and that’s the fun thing about sports. Every game brings new challenges, but all team players have the opportunity to start the game with a clean slate.”