Jessica Erchul 36 saves in second straight shutout
(photo by Jim Lindquist)
Michaela Tonsager scored game's only goal
(photo by Jim Lindquist)
Jessica Erchul made 36 saves and Michaela Tonsager scored the only goal as Farmington upset Hopkins, 1-0, Thursday night at Schmitz-Maki Arena.
The Tigers (6-10-0) have now shutout opponents in back-to-back games. The Royals (12-5-0) offense entered Thursday scoring nearly five goals per game.
“We played excellent from start to finish and as an entire team last night,” head coach Jon Holmes said. “Our defensive zone was tightfisted and we kept [most] of their shots from outside the slot.”
Tonsager’s goal came on the power play from Rachael Welzin at 2:31 of the second period. Farmington finished one-for-one on the power play while Hopkins went scoreless in three chances.
“For the remainder of the season we will need to play to our strengths while working on finding the twine between games during practice,” Holmes said. “But even without all the goals we need to remember that we have the ability to be a darn good defensive team and that can take us to great lengths.”
That defense begins with Erchul who continues to play well for the Tigers. The senior goaltender now has a save percentage climbing near the 94 percentage mark.
“Erchul is the real deal,” Holmes said. “Her numbers are among the best in the state and certainly do not come with an easy schedule. She works hard, she’s athletic, she’s smart and she’s modest.”
“I hope some colleges will take a genuine look and interest in her.”
The Tigers return to action tonight as they host Northfield at Schmitz-Maki Arena. Puck drops at 7:15 p.m.
