The Rock Ridge Wolverines will host the Duluth Marshall Hilltoppers on Tuesday, January 7, at 7:00 PM at the Iron Trail Motors Event Center in Virginia.
Rock Ridge Wolverines (10-3-1, 3-0-0 Iron Range Conference)
The Wolverines, led by first-year Head Coach Matt Niskanen, are riding high after a dominant 4-0 victory over Duluth Denfeld. With thier offense averaging 4.21 goals per game and a reliable defense anchored by strong goaltending, Rock Ridge has established itself as a strong contender in the section.
Offensively, the Wolverines are led by Grady Dimberio (13 goals, 24 points) and Caz Carlson (12 goals, 27 points). Their power play is sitting at 26.8%, and their penalty kill is one of the best in the section at 86.4%. In net, Wyatt Jonassen has been outstanding, with a 1.60 GAA and a .937 save percentage.
Key Strength: A balanced attack combined with elite goaltending from Jonassen.
Duluth Marshall Hilltoppers (8-2-2, 0-0-1 Lake Superior Conference)
The Hilltoppers, coached by Shawn Bartlette, are coming off a convincing 5-1 victory over North Shore. Known for their offensive firepower, Duluth Marshall averages 4.75 goals per game while allowing just 2.08. Their special teams are solid, with a power play converting at 25.8% and a penalty kill operating at 78.6%.
The team is led by dynamic forward Bennett Scissons, who has 14 goals and 27 points this season. Supporting him are Kyler Black (22 points) and Samuel Berry (15 points). In net, goaltender Landon Wheeler has been excellent, with a 2.15 GAA and a .918 save percentage.
Key Strength: High-scoring forwards led by Scissons and strong defensive play.
Jonassen (Rock Ridge) and Wheeler (Duluth Marshall) are two of the best goaltenders in the section. Expect both to play pivotal roles in this game.
This matchup is as evenly matched as it gets. Rock Ridge’s home-ice advantage and Jonassen’s stellar goaltending may tip the scales in a tightly contested game.
Prediction: Rock Ridge 3, Duluth Marshall 2 (OT).
