North Wright County edged out Dodge County with a 3-2 victory in overtime. The game was marked by strategic plays, effective penalty killing, and a standout performance from Annica Walters of North Wright County.
The first period saw North Wright County take the lead with a short-handed goal by Annica Walters, showcasing their defensive resilience and counterattacking prowess. Despite Dodge County having more shots in the period, North Wright County capitalized on their opportunity to lead 1-0.
In the second period, Annica Walters once again found the net for North Wright County, scoring an even-strength goal with an assist from Eva Nelson. Dodge County responded with a power-play goal from Alexa Van Straaten, assisted by McKenna LaFleur and Hannah Peterson, reducing the deficit to 2-1.
The third period continued the competitive nature of the game. Dodge County’s Mollie Koch, assisted by Abby Simons and Daisy Harens, scored an even-strength goal, bringing the game to a 2-2 tie and eventually leading to overtime.
In overtime, Annica Walters became the hero for North Wright County by completing her hat-trick with an even-strength goal, assisted by Alexa Larson. This decisive goal clinched a 3-2 victory for North Wright County.
Regarding power plays, North Wright County did not score in their 2 opportunities, while Dodge County capitalized on 1 out of their 5 power plays (20.0%). Dodge County led in shots with a total of 35, compared to North Wright County’s 20, indicating Dodge County’s offensive efforts throughout the game.
Penalties were a significant factor, with North Wright County incurring 12 minutes on 6 infractions and Dodge County 6 minutes on 3 infractions. These penalties resulted in several power-play chances, with Dodge County able to capitalize once.
Overall, the game was a display of tight competition, strategic gameplay, and individual brilliance from Annica Walters, leading North Wright County to a hard-fought victory in overtime.
Duluth Marshall came from behind to defeat Brainerd/Little Falls with a score of 2-1, thanks largely to a strong third-period performance and effective power plays.
The first period was scoreless, with both teams playing tight defense. Duluth Marshall had more shots on goal, but neither team could break the deadlock.
The second period saw Brainerd/Little Falls take the lead with an even-strength goal by Molly Pohlkamp, assisted by Peyton LeMieur. This goal came near the end of the period, leaving Duluth Marshall trailing as they entered the third period.
The third period was where Duluth Marshall turned the game around. Avery Lian scored twice on power plays, once assisted by Nina Thorson and then again with assists from Ilsa Lindaman and Sarah Stauber. These two goals within a short span changed the momentum of the game, giving Duluth Marshall a 2-1 lead.
Regarding power plays, Duluth Marshall was highly effective, converting 2 of their 4 opportunities (50.0%), while Brainerd/Little Falls did not capitalize on any of their 4 power play chances. The shot count was also in favor of Duluth Marshall, who had 30 shots in total compared to Brainerd/Little Falls’ 21, indicating their persistent offensive efforts.
Penalties played a crucial role in this game, with each team incurring 8 minutes on 4 infractions. These penalties resulted in power-play opportunities, particularly for Duluth Marshall, who utilized these chances to score both of their goals.
Overall, the game was a showcase of strategic play, with Duluth Marshall demonstrating resilience and effective use of power plays to secure a come-from-behind victory.
