Northern Lakes (3-2-0) cracked Class 1A’s top 20 for the first time this week, coming in at No. 18. We’ll see if the Lightning have staying power on Wednesday when they meet No. 10-1A Little Falls (3-3-1). Last season Little Falls played the role of rude host, demolishing Northern Lakes 12-2 in a holiday tournament in Little Falls. The teams meet 50 miles to the north in Pequot Lakes this time in a game that should be much more competitive.
Defenseman Christian Crutcher and forward Darby Boelter, both seniors, lead Northern Lakes in scoring with seven points apiece. Matt Fillippi and Carter Oothoudt each have five goals to place Little Falls. Goaltender Richie Varriano has a sparkling .923 save percentage.