Andover tops Minnetonka in Overtime

St. Paul, MN - The Andover Huskies never led in the game until the final play of the game in overtime to claim their first lead and it was the most important as they went on to win a thrilling semifinal round game over the Minnetonka Skippers by a score of 4-3.  

Gabby Krause converted a short breakaway that originated high in the Skipper zone off a turnover and nifty feed generated by Jamie Nelson.  The goal was a shot from close range that sailed past Minnetonka goalie Brynn Dulac.  I capped off a tense, well played game by two of the top teams in the state.  

Both teams played a strong schedule but this game marked the first time they played this year.  Over the years, both teams have clashed throughout the youth ranks and there was no reason to believe why this game would not be another epic battle and it was. 

Minnetonka took control on the scoreboard, taking a 1-0 lead on a first period goal  by Lisa LaRoche.  Nelson tied the game late in the first period as she notched an even strength goal from Peyton Hemp with :28 left in the first period.  

That lead didn’t last long as Minnetonka pushed back and reclaimed the 2-1 lead on a Lacey Martin goal at 4:12.  The second period stayed that way as the Skippers killed off two penalties which is a challenge considering the Huskies were owners of a power play that converts at just under 40% from the regular season.   

There were moments when the Huskies would take over and the defensive zone coverage for the Skippers was dedicated and effective and when needed, Dulac was there to shut the door.  That did not deter the Huskies as Peyton Hemp tied the game at two just :29 into the third period.  Yet, the Skippers had a response again.  

Hanna Baskin scored a rebound goal off a shot from Lisa LaRoche with 2:03 left in the third period.  There was a lengthy review on the play.  The puck was bobbled at the line by LaRoche and was elevated on it’s site.  It was called good at the line and the review from press row was the puck did not cross the line. 

A penalty :29 put the Huskies back on the power play for the fourth time of the game.  After being held off the board, they saw Hemp deliver a blast from the left circle to level the game at 3 to end regulation.  

Andover went to work in overtime, just :18 in, and that is where Krause delivered the goods.  The Huskies await the challenge of the Edina Hornets or Maple Grove Crimson in the State Final on Saturday night at 7pm.