On a brisk Tuesday evening, East Merrill United (EMU) traveled one hour to face the Antigo Red Robins in the season opener for both teams. EMU wasted no time establishing control, with Kanin Jahnke putting them on the scoreboard just 4 minutes and 46 seconds into the first period. The team maintained offensive pressure throughout the game, dictating the pace and overwhelming the Red Robins.

In the 15th minute, EMU extended their lead with a goal from Liam Zdroik, assisted by Alex Petrowski and Nick Townsend. At the end of the first period, EMU held a commanding lead, and the shot count reflected their dominance.

The second period began with a brief spark from Antigo, as Eli Kassler scored just 15 seconds into the frame, cutting the deficit to 2-1. However, the Red Robins struggled to generate quality chances, while EMU continued to assert themselves physically, winning nearly every puck battle. Seven minutes later, Zach Pagel extended EMU’s lead with help from Jackson Pierce and Jahnke. EMU would go on to score twice more in the period, ending the second with a 5-1 advantage.

The third period saw EMU continue to pour it on. Just 35 seconds in, Jackson Pierce scored to increase the lead to 6-1, with assistance from Pagel. The duo connected once again late in the game, as Pagel finished a nearly open-net goal off a perfect pass from Pierce.

Throughout the night, EMU’s dominance was evident, both offensively and physically, as they cruised to a comprehensive 7-1 victory over Antigo in the season opener.