Private Affair

For the first time since 2002 we have an all private school final.

Friday Night Recap

One game went to overtime and one game should have gone to running time. Hill-Murray was outplayed in the first period, and then went on to dominate the last two periods. They even held Moorhead to one shot in the third period. Moorhead relied heavily on their goalie, but he could only slow down the Pioneers for so long.

The second semifinal game was over after the first 17 minutes, if not sooner. Benilde jumped out to an early five goal lead in the first and never looked back. Their top end talent was too much for Lakeville South to handle. The Cougars shocked Duluth East on Thursday night but couldn't seem to find that same energy again. They looked over-matched and couldn't capitalize on the few chances they had.

I have now picked every AA game incorrectly, let's see if I can stay consistent.

Championship Game Preview

This should be a well played and hard fought game. Both teams play solid fundamental hockey, but they also have plenty of talent up front. Each team has a Mr. Hockey Finalist and will look to them to get the scoring started. Depth is not an issue for either team and should lead to a fast pace all game long. Benilde is in the championship for the first time since 2001. It would be their third state title, but first one at the AA level. Hill-Murray is back in the title game after winning it all in 2008. This would be there fourth state championship, and second at the AA level.

This game almost feels like a coin flip. They have the same record going into this game at 25-6. They have both allowed three goals in their first two games at state. They played way back on Dec. 1^st at Hill-Murray where the Pioneers won 3-2. I see this game finishing in similar fashion. I would not be surprised if this games goes into extra time. For my first correct prediction of the tournament I'm going with the Pioneers in this game. Hill-Murray wins 4-3 in OT.

Follow up tomorrow with a Championship Game and State Tournament recap. Only 364 days until next year's tournament. We're already looking forward to it.