Lacombe Generals begin a final push for a spot in the Allan Cup on Saturday.
 
Generals host Game 1 in the final around of the Chinook Hockey League playoffs against the Stony Plain Eagles in a battle of the top two teams.
 
It’s expected to be a hard-fought series and Head Coach Curtis Austring said playing strong defence is key.
 
“If we can commit to playing a strong defence and then really make it difficult for them to generate any opportunities that always bodes well for us,” said Austring.
 
After waiting two weeks between series, Austring said the team is excited to get going.
 
“We’ve been practicing consistently and finding some extra ice when we can and guys have been putting work in away from the rink so that’s going to help,” said Austring.
 
Generals went 5-1 against the Eagles in the regular season, but Austring said he expects the Eagles will give them a hard time.
 
“They’ve got some key players that we will pay attention to when they are on the ice,” said Austring.
 
“They can make you look silly if you’re not focused, but I think the guys know who they are and what they’re capable of.”
 
Game 1 will be played at the Gary Moe Auto Group Sportsplex. Game time is 7 p.m.