This contest between Lake Superior Conference foes could also be a preview of a Class 1, Section 7 matchup.
Duluth Marshall's strong regular season has helped it rise to No. 9 in the Class 1A poll, but the Hilltoppers still face a climb to state bid with a competitive section that includes storied programs such as No. 10-1A Proctor/Hermantown and Hibbing/Chisholm.
To reach the pinnacle, the Hilltoppers can continue leaning on Carissa Mudrak. The sophomore goaltender has posted a 1.72 goals-against average and .929 save percentage this season, and she is coming off her fifth shutout of the season, a 3-0 victory over Hayward (WI) on Saturday.
Cloquet-Esko-Carlton begin the week on a two-game skid, including a 6-0 loss at No. 6-2A Andover on Jan. 26.
Sophomore forward Taylor Nelson has been the best offensive performer for the Lumberjacks (8-13-1, 1-2) this season. The Bemidji State commit boasts team-bests in goals, assists and points (18-16-34).