The Yarmouth Mariners are preparing for the MHL Cup final against the Blizzard.

Sold-out crowds are expected at the ‘Fishtank’ and in Edmundston for the highly anticipated showdown.

Head Coach and GM Laurie Barron says it’s going to be a special series.

“Two very proud hockey areas too. Edmundston get their 2,800 fans a night, and we’ll have 1,500 strong here. The fans will be treated to some great hockey,” said Barron.

The Mariners have won all eight playoff games, continuing their regular season dominance that saw them finish first overall.

They’ve fallen behind a few times in games, but they always seem to have a goal or a play that turns it around.

Barron notices what a tight-knit group this is.

“The biggest part of our club is how much they care for each other. They are very resilient. There’s no quit in them, and if we’re down, we don’t throw in the towel. Playing for 60 minutes is huge, especially come playoff time.”

The Mariners won in Edmundston in October, the Blizzard won in Yarmouth in February.

Five years ago, the clubs met in the league final and Edmundston took that series in six games.

Even though all the players and most of the personnel have changed, Barron still reflects on that loss.

“Yeah, that one still stings a bit. I still remember them coming into our building and leaving with the MHL Cup. We’d like to even the score there, but we’ve got a lot of respect for their hockey club. They are well coached, and it’s going to be a battle.”

Yarmouth would win the championship the following season, their second in franchise history.

Games 1 and 2 are at Mariners Centre, then the Blizzard will host the next three games.