Jared Schmeltzer
Reporter
In a Wisconsin Valley Conference match up with Wisconsin Rapids on Thursday night, Feb. 6, the East-Merrill United hockey team would fall to the Raiders by a slim margin of 3-1. The Bluejacks hot start gave them an early lead, however they wouldn’t be able to hold on as Rapids stormed back for the win.
EMU (East-Merrill United) got off to a good start against the Raiders, scoring the first goal of the game. EMU’s Blake Raddatz scored an unassisted goal just 5:42 into the first period of play giving the Bluejacks a 1-0 lead, which they would hold on to for the remainder of the period. The Bluejacks came out a little sluggish in the second period, however after surrendering the equalizing goal just five minutes into the period, EMU would step up and and keep the game tied going into the final period.
The third and final period saw some frustration begin to mount for both sides early, however Rapids would break through after seven minutes of scoreless action and net two goals to take the 3-1 victory.
EMU’s Blake Raddatz scored the only goal on the night for the Bluejacks, while goalie Jake Furrer saved a total of 34 shots on the night.
The Bluejacks will close out their regular season on Thursday night, Feb. 13, as they travel to Rhinelander for a showdown with the Hodags at 7 p.m.