Delano edged out Minneapolis 5-4 after a thrilling overtime period. Both teams traded blows throughout the game, with Minneapolis grabbing the lead early thanks to Johan Krasean’s two goals. Delano responded with a strong second period, scoring twice through Mason Hargarten and Andrew Bruett. The third period saw another flurry of goals, with each team netting two more, keeping the outcome hanging in the balance. Ultimately, Markus Kangas emerged as the overtime hero for Delano, securing the victory with a decisive goal just 1:48 into the extra frame. Despite having more power play opportunities, Minneapolis couldn’t capitalize, while Delano’s balanced scoring attack proved too much to overcome.
In a tense, penalty-plagued battle, the Mankato West Scarlets edged past the Roseville Raiders 3-1. While neither team could crack the scoreboard in the first period, the Scarlets pounced early in the second with a power-play goal from Gage Schmidt, followed by Isaac Ulman finding the net later in the frame. Roseville roared back with a power-play tally of their own from Riley Lackner in the third, but it wasn’t enough. Mankato West slammed the door shut with an empty-net goal from Hunter Rigdon, silencing the Raiders’ comeback attempt and securing the hard-fought victory despite being outshot. Strong penalty killing and opportunistic offense proved the recipe for success for the Scarlets, leaving Roseville empty-handed in a close, defensive clash.
In a penalty-filled battle of attrition, St. Paul Highland Park edged Simley 3-1, despite being outshot 25-21. Highland Park struck first with Leo Kirsch’s goal in the opening period and Will Warner added another in the second. Simley struggled to convert on their six power play opportunities, but finally found the net in the third through Kyle Deutsch, momentarily pulling the score to within one. However, Highland Park put the game away with Kirsch’s second tally, securing the victory despite both teams racking up a hefty penalty count. This defensive showdown ultimately favored the more disciplined team, leaving Simley with a bittersweet taste of missed opportunities.
