Control of the Mississippi 8 Conference title race hangs in the balance, with Monticello and Rogers tied with 18 points in the league standings. Both teams will have one final league game after this, but a win for either could provide a stranglehold on the top spot.
The Magic (7-6-1, 6-1-0) were conference champions in 2016, and after finishing third last season, they're in prime position to regain the crown. Quinten Bianchi has been outstanding in goal, as he's made 110 saves and posted a 1.86 goals-against average. Jacob Keller is the offensive linchpin for Monticello — leading the team in goals (14) and assists (6). The junior will have to be in top form if the Magic are going to find a crack in a defense that has posted three shutouts in its last six games.
Rogers (8-6, 6-1) has shown improvement after two seasons of playing well below .500, and this game provides a chance to secure a winning record and control the conference title race.
The Royals have won six straight. In that stretch, the offense has scored 22 goals while the defense, anchored by goalkeeper Samuel Spinler, has allowed only four. If Rogers can keep the momentum rolling, the Royals should have a real shot at winning this game.