The Brainerd Warriors dominated the Big Lake Hornets in a 9-4 victory on Thursday, May 2, showcasing a balanced offensive attack with eight different players finding the back of the net.
Three Warriors scored their first career goals in the game, a testament to the team’s depth and unselfish play. Head coach Adam Extrand emphasized the importance of sharing the ball and winning ground balls, which ultimately led to their success on the field.
Triston Kubista, Tate Oium, and Kaleb Estrada were among the players who scored early goals to set the tone for Brainerd. The Warriors continued their scoring spree in the second quarter, outscoring the Hornets 4-0 with goals from Oium, Braedon Manecke, Neven Blum, and Gaje Germundson.
Goalie Eli DeRosier played a crucial role in the victory, making eight saves and providing a solid last line of defense for the Warriors. Extrand praised DeRosier’s performance, highlighting his ability to not only save shots but also facilitate the team’s offense through efficient ball distribution.
Despite a brief comeback attempt from Big Lake in the second half, Brainerd maintained control of the game and sealed the win with a goal from Wyatt Elder in the final minutes. The victory marked a two-game winning streak for the Warriors, who are now focused on their upcoming road games to continue their momentum.
With their eyes set on securing a high seeding for the playoffs, the Warriors are determined to build on their recent success and make a statement in the remainder of the season.