Mahoning Valley Phantoms - This weekend’s games

Opponent: Alpena Ice Diggers.

When: Today and Saturday, 7:15 p.m.

Where: Ice Zone, McClurg Road, Boardman.

Scouting report: The Mahoning Valley Phantoms have won six out of their last seven contests to clinch second place in the North American Hockey League North Division. This series likely will be a preview of a first-round matchup. “The last thing we want to do is give them any life, any chance, or any belief that they can win on our surface.” Phantoms assistant coach Curtis Carr said. “Especially since we have the home-ice advantage, we want to pretty much take it to them, and put the doubt in their minds about whether or not they can win here.”

Surprise contributions: While the team’s top lines continue contributing, it has been the Phantom’s fourth line that has been leading the way recently. After notching four goals and three assists against the North Stars, Stefan Salituro was named the Player of the Week in the North Division. The 17-year-old Willowdale, Ontario, native has now scored at least one point in each of the last six games. “He’s a gifted, impact player who just took some time to work into our system and into our game plan,” Mainhardt said. “He’s worked tremendously hard, broken out and has played the way we knew he could play recently.” Kyle Bailey has been on a tear. After three points in the first two games against Traverse City, Bailey’s hat trick on Sunday sparked the Phantoms to a 6-1 triumph. Rookie forward Brian McGinty also had a point in each game this past weekend, collecting two goals and three assists, including the game-winning, shootout goal last Friday night. McGinty has 10 points in his last seven games.

Key opponent: If the Phantoms hope to continue their domination over Alpena, they will have to slow down third-year forward Erik Peterson. So far this season, Peterson is fourth in the country in scoring with 71 points, and heads up the NAHL’s third best power play. The Ice Diggers have struggled to a 4-9-2 record over their last 15 games, and are 3-7-0 against the Phantoms.

Promotions: Attending Saturday’s game will be Mahoning Valley Thunder football players, staff and cheerleaders (the Storm Chasers) with free T-shirts to the first 500 fans. Tonight, beer will cost $1 and coupons will be given to the first 250 fans for a free Bloomin’ Onion courtesy of the Outback Steakhouse.