Women's Hockey | 1/20/2016 12:38:00 PM

FRIDAY: vs. Alberta, 7 p.m., The Co-operators Centre
SATURDAY: vs. Alberta, 3 p.m., The Co-operators Centre

The University of Regina women's hockey team is at home this weekend for the first time in 2016, playing host to the first-place Alberta Pandas. Alberta is tied with UBC for the top spot in Canada West, leading the Cougars by just a point heading into a crucial weekend tilt.

Regina is 3-1 since the December break, after a split with Calgary and two wins over Lethbridge last weekend. Toni Ross was impressive in net against the Pronghorns, making 30 saves for the shutout in Friday's 1-0 win before stopping 24 shots as the Cougars triumphed 4-2 on Saturday. Emma Waldenberger had a goal in each game, while Kylee Kupper had two goals and Nikki Watters-Matthes (pictured) sealed the deal with a late marker on Saturday.

"It was good to see Kylee get rewarded for all her hard work," coach Sarah Hodges said of the third-year forward. "She's played really well all season but you can tell she's more relaxed recently, and she scored two really nice goals by putting the puck in the right spot."

The battle against the Pandas will be a true test for the Cougars offence, which has scored the most goals (52) in Canada West this season. The Pandas come in with the best scoring defence in the conference, allowing only 30 goals in 20 games. That stat can be largely credited to goaltender Lindsey Post, who has a .925 save percentage to go along with a 1.36 goals-against average.

"We'll have to continue to do the little things that have made us successful so far this year," Hodges said of attacking Alberta's defence. "Getting bodies in front and pucks on net will be key as always."

Regina's attack is led by Jaycee Magwood, who is tied for third in the conference with 20 points. Kylie Gavelin is just below that with 18 points and Waldenberger's two goal weekend bumps her total to 15, including 11 goals. Ross has been incredible between the pipes all season for the Cougars, as she leads the nation in wins (12) and has the highest save percentage in Canada West (.939).

"These games are no more crucial than any other weekend," Hodges added. "It's exciting to be in a position to play for first place and we'll be ready for the challenge."