Despite going down 6-2 to the defending champions and competition leaders last time around and 10 points separating the top two teams on the ladder, Northstars coach John Kennedy jnr feels the Brave can still be caught in 2019.

Whether that happens during this weekend's home-and-away double header, in the race for the minor premiership or the Australian Ice Hockey League finals in Newcastle, Kennedy jnr backs the Northstars to get the job done.

"They [Canberra] are the team to beat for a reason," Kennedy jnr said.

"We understand they create a lot of offensive pressure, they are strong in defence and just good all round the rink.

"But at the end of the day they are beatable. They are not invincible.

"We need to be ready to play. We need to outlast that early aggression and play smart hockey."

The Northstars remain minus Tomas Landa (concussion) but they do have the services of Liam Manwarring, who missed a 3-1 win over fellow top-four side the Sydney Bears last week.

"The roster looks a lot better than last weekend," Kennedy jnr said.

"We basically have the full compliment. Tomas is still out but Liam is back and looked very good at practice."

Kennedy jnr has noted the recent form of Canadian import Francis Drolet, who sits only behind fellow overseas player Sammy Banga for Newcastle's individual points. Drolet has 11 assists and two goals from his last five outings.

"We expect that from him," the coach said.

The Northstars travel to Canberra on Saturday (5:30pm) before hosting the Brave at Hunter ice Skating Stadium on Sunday (4pm).