Duluth East (#1) and Grand Rapids (#2) clashed in a battle of the top seeds of Section 7AA Thursday night at Amsoil Arena in Duluth. East looked to defend their section title and bring their state tournament appearance streak to five years in a row.

The Greyhounds struck first as Jack Kolar netted the only first period goal assisted by Brian Bunten and Alex Trapp at the midway point of the first period. As the second period progressed, East began to pull away as Phil Beaulieu and Jack Forbort found the net in the second half of the second period with Grand Rapids answering with one power play goal from Reid Holum to end the period at 3-1 in favor of the Hounds.

Grand Rapids opened the third period with another goal from Reid Holum, with Alex Toscano answering back for the Greyhounds setting up a 4-2 game in the opening minutes of the third period. Mr. Hockey finalist Jake Bischoff struck for Grand Rapids at the midway point of the final period, but it would prove not to be enough for the Thunderhawks as East would hold on to win 4-3.

The Greyhounds will make their 20th overall and fifth consecutive appearance in the state tournament next week, with their first game slated for Thursday, March 7 at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul. Announcements on opponents and game times will be announced over the weekend as section playoffs conclude, and we'll have them posted as they become available.

Duluth East vs. Grand Rapids – 2013 Section 7AA Championship

February 28, 2013 – Amsoil Arena, Duluth, MN

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