Wisconsin Rapids River Kings dominate Minnesota with 7 to 2 victory in thrilling matchup

In a thrilling matchup on January 11, 2025, the Wisconsin Rapids Riverkings secured a decisive 7-2 victory over the Minnesota Squatch, showcasing their resilience and teamwork. The game, held at the Suffolk County Rec Center, saw the Riverkings bounce back impressively after a previous loss to the same team, demonstrating their competitive spirit and determination.

The Riverkings faced an early challenge, with the Squatch scoring the first two goals of the game. However, Wisconsin Rapids quickly regrouped, with Felix Alstrand scoring late in the first period to cut the deficit. The second period marked a turning point, as the Riverkings dominated the ice, scoring three goals in quick succession. Owen Atkins, Kadin Garcia, and Xavier Beauchamp were instrumental in this surge, contributing to the team's commanding lead.

Despite the scoreline, the game was not without its tensions. Both teams exhibited a physical style of play, leading to numerous penalties that kept the referees busy throughout the match. The Riverkings outshot the Squatch 53 to 37, with goalie Andy Bennett making an impressive 46 saves, though he faced significant pressure from the Riverkings' offense.

As the game concluded, players from both teams showed sportsmanship, with no major altercations reported. However, a light-hearted moment occurred when some Squatch players accidentally knocked over a beer pyramid, a tradition often associated with the Riverkings' fans. This incident added a humorous touch to the evening, highlighting the camaraderie that exists even amidst competition.

The Riverkings' victory not only boosts their morale but also positions them favorably in the league standings. As they prepare for their next game against the Minnesota Malts in a couple of weeks, the team and its supporters are optimistic about continuing this momentum. The community's support remains strong, with fans eager to rally behind their team as they strive for further success in the season.