Roseau versus Warroad is viewed as the state’s richest hockey rivalry, one that welcomes film crews and national news publications to northern Minnesota every few years. But for 18 seniors, Tuesday's matchup will be their final game in the storied competition.
The Rams (9-10, 4-2) and their six seniors won the first meeting 6-4 on Jan. 11, after freshman Paul Huglen (6-9-15) netted the eventual game-winner midway through the third period. The assist came from Nathan Adrian (15-14-29), who had three goals and two assists that night. Roseau eventually scored an empty-netter as the contest remained close through the final minutes.
Given the loss, the No. 18-1A Warriors (11-8-1, 2-4-1) will have extra motivation for revenge, which would give their 12 seniors a proper sendoff with a win at their home arena.
Warroad dropped its first six games of the season but has responded by going 11-2-1 since. Senior Carter Pelland (18-9-27) and the sophomore tandem of Grant Slukynsky (13-16-29) and Owen Meeker (7-21-28) have led the Warriors this season.