Springfield, Illinois- The Springfield Jr. Blues are headed west this weekend to take on the Topeka Pilots in a inter-divisional matchup. The Jr. Blues are currently in 4th place in the Midwest division with a 9-11-2-1 record.

Tale of the Tape:

Topeka Pilots: 12-10-1-1, 3rd in South Division

The Pilots have visited Springfield twice already this season, the two teams splitting the four games played. Topeka is led by forward Dallas Tulik (13 goals, 9 assists) and defenseman Max Finner (3 goals, 13 assists). Emil Gransoe has provided stability in net for the Pilots with 9 wins this season, two against the Jr. Blues.

There are a few familiar faces on the Topeka bench this season. Former Jr. Blues forwards Brendan Schultz, Kyler Yeo, and Kaiden Scott are all on the Pilots roster after playing in Springfield last season.

Springfield Jr. Blues: 9-11-2-1, T-4th in Midwest Division

The Jr. Blues were cooled off last weekend by the Janesville Jets. They had previously won four of six before being swept by their division rival. Springfield is led offensively by Brandon Puricelli (15 goals, 10 assists) who is 3rd in the league in goals, and Max Brainin (9 goals, 11 assists). Jack Williams has played well of late winning four of his last six starts, including November 17th against the Pilots.

The only Friday wins this season for Springfield have come on the road against Janesville in October and in Fairbanks earlier this month. They look to continue to be strong on the road this weekend in Topeka.

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