Menace Analyst - Mikayla Guarasci

Milton Menace Preview: Menace at Collingwood Blues, Round 2 Game 3 - March 27, 2023

The Milton Menace are back at it on Monday as they head to Collingwood for game three of their second-round series against the Blues.

The Menace come into Monday off a 4-2 loss on home ice in game two. Sunday’s game marked the first time Milton has lost back-to-back games and the first time they’ve lost on home ice in the 2023 playoffs. The game saw the Menace get down 3-0 before Bradley Banach was able to get Milton on the board. Justin O’Donnell scored in the third period to bring Milton back within one, but Collingwood struck back to secure their win. Nicholas Wereha and Myles Perry each picked up an assist.

Game two was an improvement from game one, with the Menace’s offensive finding more space for opportunities. They racked up 31 shots compared to the 19 they put up in game one. Milton was able to generate more offensive breaks and even had a few close scoring chances, which would have been difference-makers had they gone in the Menace’s favour.

The key to game three will be starting from the second the puck drops. The Blues came out strong and led in shots early, getting all-important scoring opportunities. We’ve seen that this Menace team can play with anybody, but it’s important for them not to get too far behind early in the game. You want to avoid any type of multi-goal deficit, especially against this Blues team, who won’t give much in terms of opportunities.

Game three always has the potential to be a significant turning point in any series, especially in this one, with Collingwood up two games. Either the Menace win and are within one game, or the mountain to climb becomes steeper.

There’s no counting this Milton team out. They’ve proved this season that they can come back from almost any deficit. Game three’s puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 pm at Eddie Bush Arena. If you can’t travel to Collingwood for the game, check out Hockey TV for a live stream.