The Bombers fought back from a couple of two goal deficits on Saturday, but ran out of gas in the third period and lost their opening game of 2014 6-3 to Notre Dame in front of 524 fans at the Whitney Forum.
The Hounds opened up a 2-0 lead early in the second period on goals by Antison and Aulie, before Calladine responded with his ninth for the Bombers.
Ian Williams restored the two goal lead for Notre Dame late in the second, before Kapchek grabbed a Hound turn over outside their blue line and went in to score his third of the year.
The third period started well with Eric Pederson tieing up the game just 1:18 into the final frame, with his fourth of the year. It is always nice to see Pederson score a goal as he always works very hard. Lots of games he does not get rewarded for his hard work, and he scored a nice goal behind the Hound net, because of his relentless work ethic.
Flin Flon could not get any closer, as the Hounds would reel off three more in the third period, including an empty netter by Aulie late in the game to seel the deal. It was Aulie's second of the night and 18th of the season. A three point performance gave him the first star of the game.
The Bombers were outshot 43-31 in the game and only managed 6 shots in the third period. Flin Flon sees their record drop to 15-18-0-2, and are hanging on to the last playoff spot by a hair. The Bombers have 32 points, while Laronge and Notre Dame have 31. The top ten teams in overall points make the playoffs. Flin Flon could still win their division as they are only four points behind Nipawin. The Hawks do have two games in hand.
The Ice Wolves and Hounds play tonight, so one of these teams will pass the Bombers.
Some good news Tyson Empey is back in the lineup after his bought with mono, and both Bucsis and Hounsell are seeing a doctor this week and if all go's well could be back in the lineup soon.
Mike Reagan was on the CFAR post game shoiw last night and would not give a time table for their return, but is hoping for the best.
The Bombers are missing the secondary scoring that Bucsis would be giving them, and Hounsell's strong physical presence on the back end.
Flin Flon has 21 more games remaining in the season and only one more game before Friday's trade deadline. The Division leading Nipawin Hawks will be in town Wednesday and have beaten the Bombers both games this season.
Mike Reagan indicated that he will be looking to get something done as long as he can find a willing participant. There are teams that are interested in some of the Bombers players, but may not be willing to part with players of equal value.
It will be a very interesting week, with so many teams in the hunt. Flin Flon has made one deal sending 19 year old d-man Sean Whelan to Way Way of the MJHL for future considerations. Whelan joins former Bombers McCaig and Bass.
No broadcast of Wednesday's game, but we will have the broadcast Saturday when Flin Flon hosts Laronge.
