Warhounds seek response in road rematch with unbeaten Kings

Northern Michigan looks to snap two-game skid Saturday at the Kaliseum

Gaylord, MI — The Northern Michigan Warhounds won’t have to wait long for another opportunity against the Kalkaska Kings.

One week after their first meeting of the season, the teams meet again Saturday, November 14, at the Kaliseum in Kalkaska. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m., with Northern Michigan seeking to end a two-game losing streak and hand Kalkaska its first defeat. The Warhounds enter at 2–3, while the Kings are 3–0.

Kalkaska won the November 7 matchup 9–4 at Otsego County Sportsplex. Justin McComas opened the scoring on the power play, assisted by Brendan Brooks and captain Kaleb Chillman, before the Kings responded with seven unanswered goals. Northern Michigan scored three times in the third period, with Mason Held finding the net and Cody Bourdeau adding two goals.

The Kings showed scoring depth throughout that contest, finishing with three goals in each period. Sean Schirripa and Cam Fisher each scored twice, while goaltender Justin Yochem made 36 saves. Saturday’s rematch presents a clear challenge for Northern Michigan: limit sustained scoring runs and turn offensive opportunities into a closer contest.

The Warhounds’ current skid began November 1 with a 6–3 road loss to the Motor City Muskies. Bourdeau recorded a goal and an assist, while Brian Hannafin and Isaiah Crawford also scored. Northern Michigan generated 44 shots, but Motor City goaltender Michael Schwanke stopped 41 to secure the win.

Before those setbacks, Northern Michigan demonstrated how effective it can be when offense and goaltending come together. In a 6–2 victory at St. Ignace on October 24, Hannafin and Nicholas Hodgson scored twice apiece, Bourdeau contributed a goal and an assist, and Andy Peck made 50 saves. Five Warhounds finished with two points as the team built a six-goal lead. That performance offers a benchmark as Northern Michigan works to regain its winning form.

For fans, Saturday offers a nearby road opportunity to support the Pack in a rivalry rematch. For the Warhounds, it offers an immediate chance to respond against the same opponent that handed them their latest loss.

Following the trip to Kalkaska, Northern Michigan returns to Otsego County Sportsplex to host the St. Ignace Saints on Saturday, November 21, at 6 p.m. The Warhounds then travel to face the Findlay Force on November 28 at 6:30 p.m., before another home meeting with the Kings on December 4 at 7:30 p.m.