“We have to work better in the back to get the ball moving from the back,” Kent said of the loss against Bemidji. “We have to play calmer. Our back four didn’t play great but we improved toward the end of the second half.”

The loss to the Lumberjacks was followed by a 5-3 loss to St. Cloud Apollo on Aug. 28. After a 2-0 win against Becker two days later, St. Cloud Cathedral was trounced by St. Cloud Tech 6-2 on Sept. 8. Though the Crusaders struggled against the Class 2A Tigers, the experience should help them in the postseason.

“It really helps us to see how good these 2A teams are,” Kent said. “We can use this to get ready for teams like Bemidji.”

McRay Drong, who is now a senior, led the Crusaders' attack last year with 19 goals and 11 assists. Photo by Cole Mayer, SportsEngine

McRay Drong, who is now a senior, led the Crusaders' attack last year with 19 goals and 11 assists. Photo by Cole Mayer, SportsEngine