SOUTH DAKOTA/ST. CLOUD:
The Watertown Shamrocks are set to clash once again with the St. Cloud Norsemen in what promises to be another tightly contested battle between these two teams. This season, the Shamrocks and Norsemen have faced off five times, with St. Cloud holding the edge in the series at 3-2. However, Watertown is riding the momentum of their latest shootout victory on Friday night, where Cam Markham sealed the win with the only goal in the shootout, and goaltender Phileas Lachat stood tall in net. For Watertown to keep things rolling, they’ll need another strong performance between the pipes and must stay disciplined—penalty trouble in earlier matchups gave the Norsemen too many chances on the man advantage.
Offensively, the Shamrocks will look to top scorers Carter Sproule and Cam Markham to drive the attack. Sproule’s ability to create chances and lead the forecheck has been key, while Markham continues to deliver in clutch moments. Supporting cast members like Ryan Gingher and Owen Chartier will also be vital in keeping the pressure on a St. Cloud defense that can crack under sustained offensive zone time. If Watertown can limit turnovers, maintain their forechecking intensity, and stay out of the box, they have a strong chance to even the season series and finish the inaugural season on a high note.
Photo by: Liv Sherman