Owatonna, NRHEG Winning Streaks Snapped
A pair of 14-game basketball winning streaks were snapped Saturday. The Owatonna boys fell to Rochester John Marshall 62-46. NRHEG lost at Redwood Valley 63-61.
The Huskies trailed 31-17 at halftime in Rochester. Matthew Hurt scored 30 points and grabbed 19 rebounds. Eric Stai added 18 points and seven boards. The loss leaves Owatonna (17-5, 15-3 Big Nine) as a long shot to win the conference title. It was the Huskies first setback since losing to the Rockets January 2. JM (20-2, 16-2) also solidified their spot in the Section 1AAAA standings in front of Owatonna. OHS plays at Faribault Tuesday, February 20 on KRFO AM1390.
Austin continues to lead the Big Nine boys' basketball standings. The Packers (17-1 Big Nine) beat Mankato East (14-4) Friday 73-68. Northfield (19-1) wrapped up a share of the girls' Big Nine title with an 85-53 victory over Winona Friday. Owatonna (17-3) is in second place.
NRHEG's loss was their first since December 27 against St. Croix Luther and was only the fourth time this season the Panthers have surrendered 60 or more points. NRHEG (20-2) hosts Blue Earth Area Monday, February 19.
Owatonna boys' hockey ended their regular season Saturday with a 6-1 win at Winona. Six different players scored goals, including Ashton Sorum's first varsity goal. The Huskies outshot the Winhawks 38-18. OHS opens the playoffs at home Thursday, February 22 against Farmington.
The Steele County Blades junior hockey team beat the Dells Ducks Saturday 4-3 at the Four Seasons Centre in their home and regular season finale. A big crowd enjoyed the game on Jostens' Hearts & Hockey night, promoted by Youth 1st.