Waconia vs. Orono

5 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 11

Last year, the regular-season showdown between Waconia and Orono could have determined which team won the Wright County Conference. Instead, they played to a scoreless draw and finished tied atop the league standings with 25 points. The conference title was decided by a goal differential, with the Wildcats taking home the hardware thanks to a six-goal margin (plus-35 compared to the Spartans’ plus-29).

Both squads are in position to finish in the top spot of the standings again this season, making Tuesday's game hard to ignore.

The No. 9-1A Wildcats (4-0-1, 1-0-0) are back to their offensive ways, having outscored opponents 19-2 this season. Forward Mckenzie Ickert is tied with fellow seniors Alexis Carmer and Haddy Falkman for the team lead in goals (3), while Ickert boasts a team-best three assists. 

Much of Orono’s success this season — its only loss was 1-0 to No. 3-1A Blake on Sept. 4 — is credit to a 4.5 goals-per-game average. Sarah Johnston has been the catalyst to the Spartans attack, co-leading the team with four goals and posting a team-best four assists. Anna Tesar also has four goals for No. 2-1A Orono.