For the second time in two weeks the Okotoks Oilers will face their rivals the Olds Grizzlys on home ice looking to stay atop the AJHL's South Division.

The Oilers took the opening game of their regular season series with the Grizzlys 5-3.

Head Coach and General Manager James Poole says it was learning experience in that win where the Oilers trailed 2-0 after the first period.

"We were really slow coming out of the gate and obviously they had a couple quick goals on the first shot going in and then we're caught behind the eight ball there but the kids responded again and they obviously had a great goaltending performance (From former UFA Bison Curtis Chapman)."

Poole does expect a better start from his team after a wild 4-3 shootout win against the Canmore Eagles on Tuesday.

"We know its going to be a tight game, we know what to expect from Olds, it's making sure that we stay focused on one day at a time and not look forward to Saturday (against Camrose)but make sure you take care of business, every South Division match-up the two points are really critical."

Despite the Grizzlys being in the South Division basement at the moment. Poole expects a much improved Grizzly team.

"All in all Olds looked like they have improved over the last two weeks, they had a good showcase there beating Sherwood Park  and playing Spruce Grove tough so we're expecting a much improved team from Olds."

After Friday, the Oilers will turn their attention to the Camrose Kodiaks on Saturday night.

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