The Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League has their teams set for the 2023-2024 Canterra Seeds Cup. The second round of playoffs ended earlier this week as the Melfort Mustangs defeated the Humboldt Broncos is a thrilling seven game series, now set to take on the still un-beaten Flin Flon Bombers, who have been off the ice for 10 days leading into Friday's Game 1. 

Melfort got off to a good start in Tuesday's Game 7, as Kerrobert's Austin Shepherd picked up an assist on the games opening goal scored by former Kindersley Jr. Klipper Danton Cox. Shepherd has two points after playing in all 12 of the Mustangs playoff games so far, contributing in other ways as a staple bottom six forward for the club.

WestCentralOnline talked to Shepherd coming off the Game 7 experience.

"It was great. A lot of nerves, but at the same time it was just another game." said Shepherd. "Just play your best and give it your all."

Shepherd talked about the fan support in Melfort and how it energizes the team.

"Fans support us really big in Melfort. That helped out a lot too, just getting energy and momentum and those types of things. It was awesome."

Shepherd and the team will need to be at their best to beat a Flin Flon team seemingly on a mission with their undefeated record. Melfort shares a division with Flin Flon, and feel they matchup well with the top-seeded Bombers.

"I think we have some confidence now too, especially from that Game 7." said Shepherd. Flin Flon could be a bit rusty, as the Mustangs will be looking for a fast start in Game 1. "It's going to be a good series I feel. This regular season we were even with them, 3-3, so it should be a really good series and I am excited for it."

If Shepherd and the team can make it past their division rivals, a trip to Oakville, Ontario for the Centennial Cup will look to add another chapter to the former West Central Wheat King's excellent rookie season story.