The Alexandria Blizzard showcased impressive skill and determination, improving their record to 6-6 with a pair of hard-fought victories over the Minnesota Wilderness on October 25-26, 2024.
The Blizzard secured a resounding 3-0 victory against the Wilderness at home in Alexandria on Friday, October 25, before edging out a close 4-3 win on the road in Eveleth the following day.
In the first matchup, standout goaltender Kyle Abrahamson delivered an exceptional performance, earning a shutout with an impressive total of 20 saves. The game got off to a strong start for the Blizzard as Caleb Waller lit the lamp just six minutes in, followed by John Dube’s goal that doubled their lead to 2-0 within a mere six minutes. A final flourish came midway through the third period, with Ashton Collings sealing the game with a third goal that clinched the 3-0 victory.
The Blizzard maintained a commanding presence on the ice, outshooting the Wilderness 28-20 during their dominant performance on October 25. Vital contributions came from Caleb Waller and John Dube, who, alongside Eli Fletcher and Mason Buchanan, notched assists in this decisive win.
As the second game unfolded, the Blizzard initially found themselves on the back foot, falling behind 1-0 after Tyler Webb scored for the Wilderness with just over four minutes remaining in the first period. The Wilderness capitalized further in the second period with goals from Webb and Kaden Rocheleau. However, the Blizzard retaliated with impressive strikes from Thomas Foley and Eli Fletcher, inching back into contention.
Fletcher’s determination paid off as he netted a critical goal midway through the third, leveling the score at 3-3 and igniting hopes for a comeback. In a thrilling overtime finish, Easton Schmit emerged as the hero, scoring the game-winning goal to secure the 4-3 triumph for the Blizzard. Waller’s remarkable play was on full display as he racked up three assists, with additional support from Parker Anthony, Dube, Ethan Boughton, and Schmit, contributing to the team’s success.
The shot count reflected the competitive nature of the match, with the Blizzard registering a 44-37 advantage in shots on goal during Saturday’s nail-biter. Abrahamson was instrumental once again, tallying 34 saves that cemented his role as a key player in the match.
The Alexandria Blizzard (6-6, 12 points) look to continue their momentum as they prepare to face the Granite City Lumberjacks (11-0-0, 22 points) at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, November 1, 2024. Following that, the Blizzard will battle the Minnesota Moose (2-9-1, 5 points) at 7:05 p.m. on Saturday, November 2, 2024.
Sam Stuve covers a variety of sports in the Douglas County area. He also is assigned to do some news stories as well.