Blaine vs, Elk River  
Noon, Saturday, Jan. 7

Blaine and Elk River meet at noon on Saturday in the first of two games that will heavily impact the season race for the Northwest Suburban Conference North Division crown. 

Elk River is the likely favorite in the conference race, given its body of work and a win over another top contender, Centennial, in early December. The No. 2-2A Elks (10-2, 2-0) have been impressive, scoring nearly five goals per game while employing a defensive scheme proven capable of containing most challengers.

Senior goalie Ben Meyers has been solid for Elk River, posting a 7-2 record with a .911 save percentage and a 1.89 goals-against average.

Blaine rides a five-game unbeaten streak into the new year, and will host Anoka before closing out the week at Elk River. The No. 19-2A Bengals (7-2-1, 2-1) appear to be coming into their own after starting the season looking to replace the bulk of their scoring. 

Veterans Bryce Brodzinski (10-11-21) and Steven West (10-3-13) have picked up the slack, though, with each averaging a goal per game.