Thursday's contest between Cloquet-Esko-Carlton and Duluth Marshall features teams that could be contenders in a competitive Class 1A, Section 7 field.
Cloquet-Esko-Carlton has emerged as one of the section's top teams in a breakout year that follows two consecutive nine-win seasons.
The No. 9-1A Lumberjacks (12-3, 2-0), who ride a six-game winning streak into the week, have given up just 1.8 goals per game this season, with a defense backstopped by goalie Elise Lund (12-3) and her 1.65 goals-against average.
Duluth Marshall looks to keep momentum and pace in the section, which also features No. 4-1A Proctor/Hermantown. After recording four-straight losses from Dec. 15 through Dec. 26, the Hilltoppers (9-6, 0-1) have three consecutive victories entering the week.
Emily Lemker and Maren Friday lead the Hilltoppers offense with 15 points each.