In a game filled with action and momentum shifts, Northern Edge edged out Becker/Big Lake 6-5 in a nail-biter at home. Despite being outshot 44-22, Northern Edge capitalized on key opportunities, including a dynamic third-period push, to secure the win.
The opening frame saw Becker/Big Lake take control with a late-period goal at 15:35, as Gunnar Hanson found the back of the net on an assist from Carter Tatge. Northern Edge struggled to generate chances early, being outshot 16-7 in the period.
The second period brought a flurry of activity. Becker/Big Lake extended their lead just 27 seconds in with a power-play goal by Garrett Marotz, assisted by Gavin Leitold. Northern Edge responded quickly with three unanswered goals, starting with Ryan Troxell at 0:55, followed by Riley Dufour and Gavyn Gutierrez. Brant Rusin of Becker/Big Lake tied the game at 3-3 late in the period, setting up an intense final frame.
Northern Edge came out strong in the third, with Ian Smith scoring at 4:46 to give his team the lead. Hunter Sanders and Paul Wolters added goals to push the advantage to 6-3. Becker/Big Lake made a late surge with two goals from Tate Spilde in the final five minutes, but it wasn’t enough to complete the comeback.
Becker/Big Lake went 1-for-7 on the power play, while Northern Edge was unable to convert on their four opportunities. Discipline played a role, with Northern Edge accumulating 16 penalty minutes to Becker/Big Lake’s 10.
Northern Edge’s goaltender, Gage Husby, delivered a solid performance, stopping 39 of 44 shots for an .886 save percentage. On the other side, Becker/Big Lake’s Thomas Zerwas faced fewer shots but allowed six goals, finishing with a .727 save percentage.
