UPDATE: In a thrilling overtime showdown, the Grand Forks Central Knights defeated the Fargo Davies Eagles 4-3 at Purpur Arena on October 26, 2023. Rylan Spicer’s clutch assist and Gavin Wockenfuss’s decisive goal secured the win, marking a critical moment for the Knights after relinquishing a two-goal lead in the third period.
With just over eight minutes left in regulation, Central held a 3-1 lead when penalties turned the tide. A major penalty assessed to Trey Clauson for contact to the head allowed Davies to capitalize, leading to two swift goals from Mason Pederson and Dom Diebert, leveling the score at 3-3. Central’s head coach Grant Paranica expressed the importance of this game, stating,
“Hopefully, it’s a character builder for us to be in a tight game like that.”
The Knights struggled with special teams throughout the match, scoring only once on ten power play attempts, while allowing five goals on thirteen shorthanded opportunities. Despite these challenges, the team rallied in overtime. Spicer’s fourth point of the night came from a brilliant setup that led to Wockenfuss’s game-winner.
Paranica praised the trio of Wockenfuss, Spicer, and Nolan Marto, stating,
“They played hard… They didn’t overthink the game, they forechecked well, they moved the puck when someone was open.”
The Knights’ offensive pressure was evident early in the game when Marto scored the first goal, taking advantage of a crucial turnover.
As the Knights continue to refine their game, this victory places them second in the East Region standings with five points. Fargo Davies remains at one point, marking their record at 1-1-0-1-0. The Knights will look to build on this momentum as they prepare to face off against Red River on Tuesday at Purpur Arena.
Fans are eager for the next chapter in this season, as Central aims to strengthen its special teams and tackle upcoming challenges head-on. The energy in the arena was palpable, showcasing the resilience and determination of the Knights as they strive for success in this competitive season.
