UPDATE: In a thrilling finish, Hermantown’s junior forward Gabe Swenson clinched a pivotal win against Cloquet-Esko-Carlton (CEC) with a decisive goal late in the game, leading to a 4-2 victory on December 19, 2023. The game, held at Northwoods Federal Credit Union Arena, showcased Swenson’s strategic playmaking when it mattered most.
With the score tied at 2-2 and less than six minutes remaining, Swenson took charge. “I figured I would try to get to the middle and rip a shot — see what happens — and it went in,” he noted after the game. His goal not only gave Hermantown the lead but also highlighted his ability to step up in critical moments.
Despite a strong start from CEC, which outshot Hermantown 13-5 in the first period, Hermantown’s goalie, Bryce Francisco, proved to be a formidable barrier, making 28 saves throughout the match. “We weren’t our best at times tonight, but Bryce was up to the task,” coach Pat Andrews said, praising Francisco’s performance.
The second period saw Hermantown take a 1-0 lead, courtesy of Paxson Madill at 9:45. However, CEC’s Luca Genilini answered with a power-play goal, keeping the game intensely competitive. CEC coach Shea Walters acknowledged the challenge, stating, “We started a little flat in the second period, but then again — we had a great response.”
Both teams showcased their defensive prowess, with CEC maintaining a perfect penalty kill, a point of pride for Walters. “We’ve given up one goal on the penalty kill this year. Tonight was no different and it is a momentum builder for us,” he emphasized.
As Hermantown finishes the year with an impressive record of 8-0-2 and ranks No. 1 in Class A, they are set to face Delano, the No. 3 team in Class A, next week. “It’s crazy to think that we haven’t lost yet,” Francisco remarked, urging the team to focus on one game at a time.
The immediate future looks bright for Hermantown as they prepare to host their next game against Delano at 3 p.m. on Friday. Stay tuned for more updates as this thrilling season unfolds.
