A stellar performance between the pipes by Nathan Kovach helped the Waconia Wildcats defeat the Hutchinson Tigers, 4-1.

Waconia was paced by Ben Kullman, who tallied one goal and one assist. Kullman scored on the power play 5:53 into the second period to make the score 2-1 Waconia. The Wildcats had taken the advantage when Hutchinson's Josh Carlson got sent off for too many men. Blaine Wilsey assisted on the tally.

Waconia excelled on the penalty kill, not giving up a single goal in five chances. The Tigers were unable to stop the Wildcats from sending pucks towards the net, and Waconia eventually piled up 31 shots on goal.

Waconia also had goals scored by Ryan Mattson, who had one and Alex Fortwengler, who had two. In addition, Waconia received assists from Kevin Kittleson, Colin Reuse, Kyle Kauma, Cal Rassman, Joe Benson, and Brady Turner, who each chipped in one.

Hutchinson's offense rang up 39 shots on the Wildcats' net.

The Tigers were led by Austin Mandelkow, who scored the team's only goal. Mandelkow scored 5:27 into the first period to make the score 1-0 Hutchinson. Dalton Dansby picked up the assist.

Nathan Kovach made 38 saves for Waconia on 39 shots. The Wildcats incurred 10 minutes in penalty time with five minors. Kellyn Buss recorded 27 saves for Hutchinson. The Tigers incurred four minutes in penalty time with two minors.