Game Preview: Red Lake Falls Eagles vs. Kittson County Central Bearcats

The Red Lake Falls Eagles will host the Kittson County Central Bearcats on Tuesday, January 7, at 6:00 PM.

Team Overview

Red Lake Falls Eagles (10-3-0, 4-0 Northwest Conference)
The Eagles are enjoying a great season under veteran Head Coach Trevor Page. Despite a 5-3 loss to International Falls in their last game, Red Lake Falls has established itself as a powerhouse in the Northwest Conference, averaging an impressive 6.31 goals per game while allowing just 2.31 goals per game.

The offense is driven by forward Gavin Girdler, who leads the team with 18 goals and 30 points. He is supported by a deep roster, including Brock Seeger (28 points) and Kegan Schmitz (27 points). Goaltender Nathan Altepeter has been a key anchor, with a 1.75 goals-against average.

Key Strength: A lethal power play converting at a 43.3% rate, combined with an 83.3% penalty kill.

Kittson County Central Bearcats (5-5-1, 1-2 Northwest Conference)
The Bearcats, led by second-year Head Coach Josh Rynning, are starting to find their groove after a 7-1 victory over Park Rapids. With an offense averaging 3.55 goals per game, the Bearcats rely heavily on their star player, Wyatt Samuelson, who has 14 goals and 18 points this season.

Defensively, the Bearcats have struggled, allowing 4.27 goals per game. Goalie Jameson Turner has been steady with a .889 save percentage but will need a standout performance to keep the Bearcats competitive against a high-scoring Eagles lineup.

Key Strength: Ability to capitalize on momentum from their recent big win.

The Eagles’ power play is a major weapon (43.3%), while the Bearcats have struggled on the penalty kill (70.4%). Staying disciplined will be crucial for Kittson County Central to avoid giving Red Lake Falls too many opportunities.

Players to Watch

• Red Lake Falls:
  • Gavin Girdler: The conference’s leading scorer is a constant threat with the puck.
  • Nathan Altepeter: A strong rebound game in net could solidify another conference win.
• Kittson County Central:
  • Wyatt Samuelson: The Bearcats’ offensive engine needs a big performance to keep his team in the game.
  • Jameson Turner: The goaltender will need to handle the pressure against a relentless Eagles offense.

Prediction

Red Lake Falls has too much firepower and strength for the Bearcats to handle. While Kittson County Central’s recent win may provide confidence, the Eagles’ balanced attack and solid defensive structure will likely overwhelm their opponent.

Prediction: Red Lake Falls 6, Kittson County Central 2.

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