Centennial at Elk River
Noon., Saturday, Jan. 14

The first meeting between these two Northwest Suburban Conference giants was an intensely contested battle, with Elk River knocking off Centennial 3-1.

History suggests Round 2 shoulde offer more of the same.

Centennial has built an impressive body of work while enduring and embracing a tough schedule. The Cougars (8-3, 2-2) made the most of their opportunities in big games with wins over No. 8-2A Eden Prairie, No. 11-2A Minnetonka, No. 12-2A Duluth East and No. 14-2A Blaine.

Lucas McGregor (8-9-17) and Carter Wagner (8-3-11) continue to lead No. 6-2A Centennial in scoring. Goaltending duties are being shared by juniors Travis Allen (3-3, 3.00 goals-against average, .887 save percentage) and Bryce Crowley (5-0, 1.20 GAA, .940 SA), who split minutes 50-50.

Elk River (11-2, 3-0) recorded a solid 4-2 win over conference rival Blaine on Saturday night, helping ease the sting of a 4-1 loss to No. 1-2A Stillwater on Dec. 30. 

The No. 2-2A Elks have been three goals better than their opponents this season (4.85 goals for to 1.69 goals allowed) and are getting scoring from multiple sources.

Jax Murray (9-9-18), Nate Horn (9-11-20), Connor Bizal (8-10-18) and Max Michaelis (8-11-19) are pushing sophomore Jack Perbix (10-8-18) for team lead in goals.