VAL-D’OR, Quebec (Interstat) — A crucial divisional matchup is set for Sunday as the Val-d’Or Foreurs host the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies in Quebec Major Junior Hockey League action at Centre Agnico Eagle.

The Huskies (18-13-0-0) enter with a clear edge in the standings, sitting five places and 10 points ahead of the Foreurs (13-19-0-0). This game is the third of six scheduled meetings this season, with the road team winning each of the first two. Val-d’Or took the season opener 5-3 on home ice on Sept. 28, but Rouyn-Noranda responded with a 5-2 victory on Oct. 3.

Rouyn-Noranda looks to rebound from a 5-1 road loss to Blainville-Boisbriand on Thursday. Center Thomas Verdon, the Huskies’ player to watch, scored their lone goal in that contest. He is in strong form, having recorded a hat trick and an assist in a 7-5 win over Victoriaville on Dec. 13. Verdon has four goals and four assists in his last six games.

Val-d’Or is also seeking redemption after a high-scoring 11-6 defeat in Shawinigan on Thursday. Defenseman Benjamin Cossette Ayotte was a bright spot in the loss, contributing a goal and three assists. The Foreurs’ player to watch has been productive lately, tallying five points (one goal, four assists) over his last two games.

The Huskies have struggled on their recent road trip, losing four of five games away from home since Dec. 4. Val-d’Or has had its own difficulties, winning just three of its last 10 contests overall. Both teams will want to build momentum heading into the New Year’s Eve rematch, scheduled for Wednesday in Rouyn-Noranda.

Sunday’s result could hinge on special teams and which squad can tighten up defensively after both allowed five or more goals in their most recent outings. Puck drop is scheduled for 4 p.m. EST.