Rosemount has been one of the best teams in the South Suburban Conference this season, but it has one more big hurdle to overcome to likely secure a league crown: Tuesday's showdown with Lakeville North.
The Irish lead the league with 26 points, while the Panthers — who have struggled outside of South Suburban play — have done enough against conference foes to sit in second place with 24 points and to give themselves a shot at the title.
Rosemount cleared one major challenge in the league title chase with a 5-2 win over third-place Eagan last Saturday and has games against Lakeville North, Lakeville South and Farmington remaining. The rematch with the Panthers seems to be the most competitive of the bunch. The No. 10-2A Irish (19-3, 13-2) won the first meeting 6-4 on Jan. 12.
Rosemount’s offense has often been overwhelming and — at times — clutch on its eight-game winning streak thanks to the play of Connor Kenefick (16-18-34). He had three goals and an assist in the first game against Lakeville North and tallied the overtime game-winner to lead the Irish over Eastview 3-2 on Jan. 19. Kenefick also assisted on the overtime-winner in a 5-4 victory over Farmington on Jan. 15.
Lakeville North doesn't completely control its quest for a league crown, but a win over the Irish puts the Panthers (13-9, 12-4) in position to tie or top Rosemount in points by the end of the season.
To do so, Lakeville North has to take care of business against rival Lakeville South after meeting Rosemount.
The Panthers defense may determine what happens this week and has been performing at a high level recently. Lakeville North has allowed 1.80 goals per game and recorded two shutouts to go 4-1 in its last five contests. The Panthers have rotated goalies with mixed results. Will Johnson recorded a 6-0 victory over Apple Valley on Jan. 31, while Caleb Mayer, who shut out Shakopee on Feb. 9, gave up five goals on 28 shots in the first meeting with Rosemount.
Caden Smith (9-17-26) could also be a difference-maker on Tuesday. He scored twice in the game against the Irish and is Lakeville North's second-leading scorer with 26 points on the season.