NORTH BAY, Ontario (Interstat) — Two of the Ontario Hockey League’s early unbeaten teams will clash Friday when the North Bay Battalion host the Ottawa 67’s at Boart Longyear Memorial Gardens.

The Battalion (2-0-0) are coming off a pair of road victories to open their season, including a 4-3 overtime win in Sudbury last Friday. Ottawa (1-0-0) began its campaign with a decisive 6-2 victory over the Kingston Frontenacs on the same night.

The matchup pits North Bay’s perfect start against an Ottawa team that showcased its offensive firepower. Despite the 67’s high-scoring opener, a projection from Interstat’s game simulator anticipates a tight, defensive battle, forecasting a 1-0 victory for the Battalion.

The game is the first of a 10-game stretch for both clubs. Following Friday’s contest, the Battalion will host Kingston on Sunday before a rematch in Sudbury on Oct. 3. Ottawa returns home to face the Soo Greyhounds on Sunday.

The Battalion won both meetings against the 67’s last season. Friday’s puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. EDT.