The Willmar Cardinals survived a determined comeback attempt by the Alexandria Cardinals on the way to a 3-2 win.

A goal by Evan VanDenEide put Willmar up 3-1 in the third period, but Alexandria pulled to within one on Jack Wensman's tally 14:39 into the third period.

VanDenEide had a great game for the Cardinals, netting two goals.

Willmar managed to stay out of the box better than usual, racking up one minor for two minutes in penalty time. The Cardinals wound up below its season average of 8.0 penalty minutes per game.

Willmar additionally got points from Hunter Schneider, who also finished with one goal and two assists.

The Cardinals forced Willmar goalie Joe Benson to work between the pipes, taking 32 shots.

More assists for Alexandria came via Tom Schmidt, who had two.

Benson recorded 30 saves for the Cardinals. Willmar registered zero goals on two power play opportunities. Ben Allen made 24 saves for Alexandria on 27 shots. The Cardinals incurred 14 minutes in penalty time with two minors.