The Crookston Pirates Boys Hockey team secured a thrilling 7-5 victory over the Red Lake Falls Eagles in a highly competitive match-up that had fans on the edge of their seats. The game saw an impressive display of skill and teamwork from both sides, with each team showcasing their offensive prowess.
In the first period, Crookston’s Liam Larson scored the opening goal just two minutes into the game, followed closely by a response from Red Lake Falls’ Gavin Girdler. The back-and-forth action continued as both teams exchanged goals, resulting in a 2-2 tie at the end of the first period. Both goalies, Parker Kelly for Crookston and Ashtin Fredrickson for Red Lake Falls, made crucial saves to keep the score level heading into the second period.
The second period was marked by a flurry of penalties, disrupting the flow of the game. Despite the stoppages, Crookston managed to secure a 4-3 lead by the end of the period, with Brandon Colborn and Tate Hamre finding the back of the net. Red Lake Falls fought back with a goal from Brock Seeger, narrowing the gap to one goal.
As the game entered the third period, tensions were high as both teams vied for control. Red Lake Falls’ Brock Seeger notched his second goal of the night to tie the game at 4-4, but Crookston’s Teagan Lubinski responded swiftly with a goal of his own. The seesaw battle continued, with Red Lake Falls tying the game once again, only for Crookston to pull ahead with a crucial goal from Riley Benson. The Pirates sealed the victory with an empty-net goal from Grayson Ecker, securing a 7-5 win and maintaining their undefeated record for the season.
With the win, Crookston improves to 2-0 and looks ahead to their upcoming match against International Falls, while Red Lake Falls drops to 1-1 and prepares to face Wadena-Deer Creek.
The game showcased the determination and skill of both teams, and fans were treated to an exhilarating display of hockey. The Pirates’ ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities ultimately proved to be the difference maker in this high-scoring affair.
For more insights into the game, Coach Josh Hardy’s post-game comments provide valuable perspective on the team’s performance and strategy moving forward.
Scoring:
1st
2nd
3rd
Final
Red Lake Falls
2
1
2
5
Crookston
2
2
3
7
1st Period
2:13 – Crox – Liam Larson (1) (Blake Melsa)
3:08 – RLF – Gavin Girdler (Denny Lactot, Blake Brieland)
8:26 – Crox – Kadin Edwards (2) (Unassisted)
11:30 – RLF – Gavin Girdler (Brock Seeger) (PP)
2nd Period
2:48 – Crox – Brandon Colborn (1) (Teagan Lubinski)
7:26 – Crox – Tate Hamre (1) (Ryan Street, Teagan Lubinski)
7:35 – RLF – Brock Seeger (Unassisted)
3rd Period
6:25 – RLF – Brock Seeger (Unassisted)
7:27 – Crox – Teagan Lubinski (1) (Jay Reese)
9:36 – RLF – Gavin Girdler (Blake Audette, Blake Breiland) (PP)
14:13 – Crox – Riley Benson (1) (Grayson Ecker, Jay Reese)
16:09 – Crox – Grayson Ecker (1) (Unassisted)
Saves:
1st
2nd
3rd
Final
Parker Kelly- Crox
4
13
8
25
Ashtin Fredrickson – RLF
10
7
13
30
The game was a testament to the talent and competitive spirit of both teams, and it was a testament to the excitement and unpredictability of high school hockey. The Pirates’ victory was hard-fought and well-deserved, and it sets the stage for an exciting season ahead.