After splitting a pair of 4-3 games last weekend in California, the Salt Lake Golden Eagles and San Diego Gulls meet up again Wednesday night in the Salt Palace.
The 7 p.m. contest will be the home opener for the Eagles, who play three games this week. They also face the Milwaukee Admirals Friday and Saturday at the Salt Palace.Eagle Coach Bobby Francis felt like the opening weekend was a successful one for his club, considering the number of young players he used.
"The first game we were very tentative with a lot of new guys in the lineup," said Francis. "But in the second game we initiated more and were more successful."
Francis singled out defenseman Mark Osiecki, a rookie from Wisconsin and right winger Kerry Clark, who scored three goals in the two games. Clark played with Phoenix for part of last season.
"I have to be encouraged the way we played the second night compared to the first," said Francis.
As for San Diego, Francis said the term "expansion team" is misleading.
"All that means is they're an independent," he said. "They have a veteran team with a lot of skill players. They have quality hockey players including a lot of NHL experience."
Francis was impressed with the play of the Gulls' Larry Floyd who scored four goals in the two games. Floyd played with Phoenix last year.
Steve Guenette, who didn't see action in San Diego, will likely start in the goal for Salt Lake Wednesday.