TUCSON, ARIZ. — Two Top 20 teams take the ice this Friday night in a top-ranked matchup between No. 2 Minot State and No. 14 University of Arizona. The Wildcats are coming into this competition with a 13-5-0 record and are on a hot-streak having won their last nine games. 

The Beavers seem to thrive in their opponents' environment, considering they haven't given up a loss to any teams on the road so far this season. Not only has Arizona remained undefeated on their home ice, but they haven't played a game since just over a month ago on December 4th, giving them even more of a reason to bring Arizona heat to the ice in their Friday night matchup against MSU. 

Minot State's offense  has pushed pucks through their opponents' nets 92 times altogether this season — impressive in comparison to Arizona, whom have only been able to score 59 goals on the year. The Beavers' defense continuously shows up to protect their leads, especially in times when the pressure is on during the other team's power play advantage. So far this season, MSU's penalty killing percentage sits at a stellar 91.23 percent, while the Wildcats have struggled to keep opponents from scoring when down a man, allowing 19 out of 44 power play opportunities, resulting in a 56.82 percent in penalty killing. 

Carter Barley and Eric Soar are coming into this game with hot sticks after an incredible offensive performance between the two last night in their shutout win over Grand Canyon University. Look out for electric scoring chemistry from these two, along with Jared Hamm and Davis Sheldon, both of which have scored double-digits this season for the Beavers. Barley currently leads the Minot State roster in goals scored, assists, and has the highest number of scoring points overall. Jake Anthony and Riley Wallace have remained key to Minot State's defense with 94% of shots from their opponents being stopped in their tracks, aiding in the Beavers' continued success on the ice. 

If the Beavers can capitalize on the Wildcats' penalties and the scoring opportunities they bring, along with defending their own net with aggressive defense, No. 2 Minot State is sure to see success in the top-ranked battle in Tucson. Friday night's game will be played in No. 14 University of Arizona's home rink, the Tucson Convention Center. Puck drops at 8:30 p.m. CT. 
















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