So as the Moose have made this a race, there aren't a lot of signs today that the tide is turning. In fact, as the trip begins with tonight's game against the Peoria Rivermen (7 p.m., CJOB), the factors are stacking up rather ominously against the Moose.

* The lineup. On the weekend, when Manitoba could gain only one point from Hamilton at MTS Centre, eight regulars were missing. Injuries and Vancouver call-ups have left a major challenge in place, and it's been tough sledding for everybody. If it's this group to the finish, the team could be just 50-50 to make the playoffs.

* The defence. It is trying its best, but the team's backline unit is being held together with masking tape and string. There's little offence from the blue line and not really much upside there as things stand. The team's only veteran defenceman, Danny Groulx, has missed nine games and counting with a rib injury and is out this week again.