Playoff Preview: New Ulm vs. Mankato West

📅 Date: Saturday, Feb. 22 @ 1:00 PM
📍 Location: All Seasons Arena, Mankato

Matchup Overview

The Section 3A semifinals feature a battle between two Big South teams, as New Ulm (12-12-2) faces Mankato West (10-7-0). Both teams are coming off contrasting quarterfinal victories—New Ulm pulled off a 5-3 win over Marshall, while Mankato West dominated Fairmont 14-0 in an offensive explosion.

With a spot in the section championship on the line, expect a competitive, high-scoring game between two teams that have shown flashes of offensive brilliance but inconsistency throughout the season.

New Ulm: A Team Finding Its Stride

New Ulm’s offensive core is its biggest strength, averaging 4.04 goals per game, but the Eagles have struggled defensively, allowing 3.38 goals per game. They will need a strong defensive effort and a big performance from goaltender Graham Glaser to contain Mankato West’s surging offense.

Key Players to Watch

Carson Uecker (22G, 18A, 40P) – New Ulm’s offensive leader, Uecker has game-changing ability and is crucial to the Eagles’ attack.
Hunter Larson (19G, 19A, 38P) – A well-rounded scoring threat who can produce at even strength and on the power play.
Brody Nordby (15G, 21A, 36P) – A consistent secondary scoring option, capable of setting up teammates or finishing himself.
Graham Glaser (2.94 GAA, .904 SV%) – The Eagles’ top goaltender will need a strong performance to slow down Mankato West’s high-powered attack.

Keys to Victory

✅ Limit defensive breakdowns – The Eagles have allowed 3.38 goals per game, which could be costly against a Mankato West team coming off a 14-goal performance.
✅ Capitalize on power plays – New Ulm’s power play (17.6%) needs to be more efficient to take advantage of Mankato West’s mistakes.
✅ Uecker & Larson need to lead the way – New Ulm’s top scorers must be productive for the Eagles to keep pace offensively.

Mankato West: Riding High After Offensive Explosion

The Scarlets enter the game on a high after dismantling Fairmont 14-0. While Fairmont was an overmatched opponent, Mankato West was dominate in all phases. The key will be maintaining that momentum against a tougher opponent in New Ulm.

Key Players to Watch

Jakobe Tosch (13G, 26A, 39P) – The Scarlets’ most dynamic playmaker, Tosch is excellent at creating scoring opportunities for teammates.
Jaeger Zimmerman (15G, 18A, 33P) – Mankato West’s leading goal scorer, Zimmerman is a lethal finisher around the net.
Brodie Cox (11G, 13A, 24P) – A consistent contributor, Cox adds depth to the Scarlets’ scoring attack.
Mason Schreiber (2.37 GAA, .912 SV%) – A steady goaltender, Schreiber will need to be sharp against New Ulm’s offense.

Keys to Victory

✅ Use offensive depth – Mankato West scored 14 goals in their last game and has multiple players who can contribute offensively.
✅ Control possession & dictate pace – The Scarlets thrive when they play an up-tempo game, which could overwhelm New Ulm’s defense.
✅ Schreiber must outplay Glaser – Goaltending will be key, and if Schreiber can outduel Glaser, Mankato West has a great chance to advance.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Category	New Ulm	Mankato West
Goals Per Game (GPG)	4.04	3.27
Goals Allowed Per Game (GAPG)	3.38	2.46
Power Play %	17.6%	26.4%
Penalty Kill %	70.1%	79.6%
Top Goal Scorer	Carson Uecker (22)	Jaeger Zimmerman (15)
Top Playmaker	Hunter Larson (19A)	Jakobe Tosch (26A)
Goaltending Leader	Graham Glaser (.904 SV%)	Mason Schreiber (.912 SV%)

Prediction

This game could be closer than expected, as both teams have talented goal scorers and quality goaltending. However, Mankato West’s superior special teams (26.4% power play, 79.6% penalty kill) gives them a clear edge in tight situations.

Expect a high-scoring game, but in the end, Mankato West’s defense and special teams should be the difference-maker.

Final Prediction: New Ulm 5, Mankato West 3
➡️ The Eagles punch their ticket to the Section 3A Championship with strong offensive performance.

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