BAIE VERTE, NL — After all season, the final two games for four of the five teams in the Central Newfoundland Senior Intermediate Hockey League carry playoff significance.
With only the Twillingate Combines’ (8-7-1 for 17 points) regular season concluded, a pair of two-game matches this weekend will determine who makes the playoffs and in what position.
While the Combines will finish second or third in the standings as they scoreboard watch, the Northeast Sabres (8-5-1 for 17 points) and Springdale Braves (8-6 for 16 points) both still have a chance to secure the best record as they finish their seasons on the road.
The Sabres will travel to Lewisporte (6-8) to play the Seahawks, while the Braves will be in Grand Falls-Windsor to battle the Exploits Blades (6-8).
The Sabres hold the tiebreak advantage over the Combines if they go winless in their weekend set against the Seahawks, so can finish no lower than second in the regular season.
The Braves can still finish anywhere between first and third.
Tied at 12 points, the Seahawks and Blades are both trying to secure the final playoff spot.
The playoffs will see the first-place team battle for fourth place, while second and third will meet in the other semi-final.
The winner of each series will play for the championship.
Both games are scheduled for Saturday night and Sunday afternoon at their respective arenas.
