The Rivalry. That’s what many fans and observers label this annual showdown, which dates to the 1944-45 season when Warroad won both regular-season meetings. Roseau has had the edge in more recent years, going unbeaten in eight meetings until this season, when Warroad beat the Rams 6-3 on Jan. 26 in their first matchup behind two Blake Norris goals.
The towns’ proximity along the Canadian border (they're 22 miles apart) and storied histories (they’ve combined for 11 state titles) are part of the lore of this rivalry. So, too, are the so many great players who have competed in it.
Roseau enters the week on a three-game losing skid that has coincided with the COVID-19 quarantine of starting goaltender Andrew Tuttle and his backup, Carter Christianson. Rams coach Andy Lundbohm said both Tuttle and Christianson were considered COVID-19 (exposure) contacts the first day Roseau (5-4-0) resumed in-school learning but should be back in the lineup against Warroad.
Warroad (5-2-2) has won just one of its last five games, a stretch that includes three overtime finishes that ended in a loss and two ties. Super sophomore Jayson Shaugabay leads the No. 5-1A Warriors with nine goals and 25 points.