Plum is wondering why it is seeded fifth in the PIHL Class AAA Penguins Cup playoffs despite having more points than the No. 3 seed, a team it defeated in the regular season.

The Mustangs (15-4-3) have 33 points, while State College (15-4-2) ended up with 32 points. But the Little Lions didn't make up a game against Upper St. Clair (16-4-1, 33 points) that was postponed due to a snowstorm Feb. 26, and PIHL rules dictate that playoff seeding is based on percentage of possible points earned.

Mustangs coach Stu Rulnick wonders why the two teams -- both of which his team defeated -- weren't forced to meet before the playoffs began. No matter the outcome of the game, he maintains, Plum would have ended up with the No. 4 seed. The distinction between the Nos. 4 and 5 seed is an important one because it means a first-round bye and home-ice advantage in the quarterfinals.

"It's a shame because these kids busted their butts and earned that," Rulnick said. "I'm not bashing anyone here, but I don't see why they couldn't have played."

PIHL commissioner Ed Sam said using points percentage has long been the league's policy and that the timing of the postponement -- with one week left in the season -- is essentially what caused the game not to be played.

The Panthers and Little Lions each had three other games to fit in over the six-day span before the Penguins Cup scheduling meeting this past Saturday morning.

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