St. Lawrence (11-5) vs. RIT (13-4) – Liberty League Semifinal

The Liberty League Semifinals are here, and this one has all the makings of a battle as St. Lawrence and RIT meet with a trip to the championship game on the line. Two of the top teams in the conference, familiar with each other and fully capable of making a run… this should be a good one.

St. Lawrence enters at 11-5 and already proved it can hang with and beat the best in the league. The Saints bring a balanced offense and a gritty defensive unit that thrives in physical matchups.

Offensively, Daniel Mahoney (68 pts) leads the way, with Jamie Rosenzweig (45 pts) and Patrick Murray (32 pts)providing consistent scoring support. The Saints also get strong two-way production from Dan Anderson (18 CTs, 37 GBs, 13 pts) in the midfield. Defensively, Drew Knight (33 CTs, 120 GBs, 9 pts) has been one of the most impactful players in the conference, alongside Quin Fedor (23 CTs, 27 GBs, 2 pts)  a group that can create extra possessions and disrupt opposing offenses.

RIT comes in at 13-4 and once again looks like one of the top teams in the Liberty League. The Tigers have been a standard in the conference for years and will be looking to reassert themselves with a big performance in the semifinals.

The offense is led by Erich Acton (71 pts), with Ryan Sanders (51 pts) and Ethan Harkins (43 pts) forming a dangerous trio that can score in bunches. Defensively, Joe Holenstein (25 CTs, 64 GBs, 4 pts) and Logan Fletcher (24 CTs, 31 GBs, 5 pts) anchor a physical unit, while Jamie Hunt (18 CTs, 8 GBs) adds depth.

These two met on April 11, where St. Lawrence pulled off an 11-9 upset win. In that game, Ted Wilson played a major role with a four-point performance, helping the Saints control key moments. It also came during a brief rough stretch for RIT, where they dropped back-to-back games, something they’ve since corrected heading into the postseason.

DeeThreeLax Take
This feels like a classic Liberty League playoff game. St. Lawrence has already shown it can beat RIT, but the Tigers come in with momentum and something to prove. Expect a physical, high-intensity matchup with runs on both sides. If the Saints can control possessions and replicate their earlier success, they’ll be in a good spot but RIT’s experience and firepower make them a tough out. Don’t be surprised if this one goes down to the final minutes.

Ithaca (11-5) vs. Union (7-11) – Liberty League Semifinal

Another must-watch Liberty League Semifinal as top-seeded Ithaca takes on a dangerous Union squad that has made a habit of keeping things interesting all season. Records aside, this matchup feels much closer than it looks on paper.

Ithaca enters at 11-5 and has earned the No. 1 seed behind a balanced offense and strong play across the field. The Bombers have consistently found ways to win tight games and will look to lean on that experience in a high-pressure semifinal.

Offensively, Tim Rogers (39 pts), Brendan Occhino (38 pts), and Will Kleine (36 pts) lead a well-rounded unit that can score from multiple spots. Defensively, Jace Dockx (19 CTs, 27 GBs) and Max Warn (11 CTs, 14 GBs) provide stability, while Liam Alberti (205 FO wins, 67%) gives Ithaca a major advantage at the faceoff X and in controlling possessions.

Union comes in at 7-11, but this is not your typical underdog. The Dutchmen have been one of the toughest outs in the Liberty League all season, playing in numerous tight games and proving they can compete with anyone in the conference.

The offense is led by Walker Popko (63 pts), Garrett Salit (59 pts), and Emmett Lyne (39 pts)  a trio capable of generating offense quickly. On the defensive side, John Sula (25 CTs, 84 GBs, 11 pts) has been a force all over the field, alongside Chris Weitzel (23 CTs, 35 GBs, 1 pt) and Luke Foster (21 CTs, 42 GBs, 1 pt) a group that can create turnovers and swing momentum.

These two met on April 4, where Ithaca pulled out a gritty 9-8 win in a defensive battle. Tim Rogers and Lucas Porter led Ithaca with three points each, while Walker Popko (4 pts) powered Union’s offense. It was a tight, physical game that came down to the final possessions.

DeeThreeLax Take
The Liberty League has been chaos all year, and this game fits that theme perfectly. Ithaca is the top seed for a reason, but Union has been the “upset squad” and won’t be intimidated. Expect a physical, back-and-forth game where every possession matters. Ithaca has the edge with experience and faceoffs, but this is a game that could be way too close for comfort and wouldn’t be surprised if we see overtime.

Marymount (8-7) vs. Immaculata (12-5) – Atlantic East Championship

A trip to the NCAA Tournament is on the line as Marymount and Immaculata meet in the Atlantic East Championship. Two teams that know each other well, one possession could end up deciding who keeps their season alive.

Marymount enters at 8-7 and has leaned on a balanced offensive offense and strong faceoff play to get to this point. The Saints have shown they can grind out close games, something that will be critical in a championship setting.

Leading the way offensively is Santino Rossitto (44 pts), alongside Ian Fructuoso (41 pts) and James Elko (40 pts)  a group that can produce consistently. Defensively, Spencer Carfang (20 CTs, 35 GBs) has been a key presence, while also contributing offensively (15 CTs, 25 GBs, 2 pts). At the faceoff X, Winston Horshaw (183 FO wins, 74%) gives Marymount a major advantage in the possession game.

Immaculata comes in at 12-5 and has been one of the stronger teams in the conference throughout the season. The Mighty Macs bring a high-powered offense and a physical defensive unit into this championship matchup.

The offense is led by Jason Smaron (65 pts), with Jude Azzarano (47 pts) and Aaron Headley (39 pts) providing additional firepower. Defensively, Colton Rhoades (22 CTs, 52 GBs, 1 pt), Colin Wolk (22 CTs, 38 GBs), and Brady Lynch (15 CTs, 23 GBs) anchor a group that will be tasked with slowing down Marymount’s balanced attack.

These two met earlier this season on March 27, where Marymount escaped with a 7-6 win in a defensive battle. Ryan Gorman (3 pts) led Immaculata, while Santino Rossitto and Braden Miller each chipped in three points for Marymount in a game that came down to the wire.

DeeThreeLax Take
With an NCAA Tournament bid on the line, expect nothing less than a fast-paced championship game. Marymount has the edge at the faceoff X, while Immaculata brings a bit more offensive firepower. These teams already showed how evenly matched they are earlier this season, don’t be surprised if this one comes down to a late goal or final defensive stand.

Christopher Newport (16-2) vs. Salisbury (15-3) – CLC Championship

It doesn’t get bigger than this. The CLC Championship features one of the best rivalries in DeeThreeLax as CNU and Salisbury meet once again, this time with a conference title and NCAA Tournament implications on the line.

CNU enters at 16-2 and has been one of the most complete teams in the country all season. The Captains bring elite offensive firepower, a strong defense, and one of the best goaltender in the country. A combination that finally helped them break through against Salisbury earlier this year.

The offense is loaded, led by Kevin Miller (91 pts), Jamie Smith (88 pts), and Ryan Miller (69 pts)  one of the most dangerous offensive units in DeeThreeLax. Defensively, Brett Kelley (38 CTs, 63 GBs, 5 pts), Colin DeGrassi (20 CTs, 40 GBs), and Mark Davison (22 CTs, 24 GBs, 1 pt) anchor a disruptive unit, while Mason Bellinger (235 saves, 61% SV%) has been outstanding in net.

Salisbury comes in at 15-3 and remains the standard in the CLC, bringing championship experience and a roster built for big games. The Sea Gulls have been here before and know how to win when it matters most.

The offense is powered by Connor Herraiz (98 pts), with Riley Strub (66 pts) and Trent Lucovich (52 pts) providing a strong supporting cast. Defensively, Bryce Stevenson (31 CTs, 46 GBs, 6 pts) and Jeremiah Stafford (25 CTs, 31 GBs, 1 pt) lead a dominate unit, while Joe Buxbaum (12 CTs, 18 GBs, 3 pts) adds depth. At the faceoff X, Blake Malamphy (300 FO wins, 76%) gives Salisbury a major edge in controlling possessions.

These two met on April 18, where CNU finally got over the hump and defeated Salisbury 12-9. The Captains found rhythm offensively with balanced production, including key contributions from multiple playmakers. Salisbury saw strong performances from Bret Bergey (4 pts) and Preston Huffman (3 pts), but ultimately couldn’t close the gap late.

DeeThreeLax Take
This is the matchup we’ve been waiting for. CNU proved it can beat Salisbury, now the question is whether they can do it again with a championship on the line. Salisbury has the experience, the faceoff advantage, and a track record of responding in big moments. CNU has the confidence and firepower after breaking through. Expect a high-level, back and forth battle that could easily go either way, and very well might be one of the best games of the weekend.

Catholic (13-5) vs. Scranton (12-6) – Landmark Championship

A classic Landmark Conference title matchup is set as Catholic and Scranton face off with an NCAA Tournament bid on the line. Two familiar programs with plenty of history. 

Catholic enters at 13-5 and has put together a strong season, powered by a deep and balanced offensive unit. The Cardinals have multiple scoring options and will look to bounce back after a tough result in the regular season matchup.

Leading the way is Burke Healy (64 pts), alongside Steven Dezelic (49 pts), Cullen Lotz (44 pts), and Ryan Carickhoff (43 pts)  a group that can generate offense from all over the field. Defensively, Jake McGowan (14 CTs, 23 GBs) and Zach Gibson (13 CTs, 52 GBs, 4 pts) provide stability, while Connor Baia (182 FO wins, 73%) gives Catholic a major advantage at the faceoff X.

Scranton comes in at 12-6 and once again finds itself in a familiar spot competing for a Landmark title. The Royals have been the standard in this conference and are looking to secure a four-peat, bringing both experience and confidence into this matchup.

The offense is led by Quinn Carson (63 pts) and Kyle Holmes (60 pts), with Jason Kozak (38 pts) adding another key scoring option. Defensively, Connor Cole (20 CTs, 37 GBs), Colin Giarrusso (18 CTs, 34 GBs, 6 pts), Thomas Popolizio (17 CTs, 15 GBs, 5 pts), and Logan Kelly (17 CTs, 34 GBs) anchor a unit that can control tempo and create extra possessions.

These two met on April 11, where Scranton dominated in a 17-5 win. Jason Kozak (5 pts) led the way, with strong support from others across the lineup, while Catholic was held in check offensively, with Cullen Lotz (2 pts) leading their scoring.

DeeThreeLax Take
Scranton has the edge based on recent history and their dominant win earlier this season, but Catholic has the talent and depth to respond. The key will be whether Catholic can adjust offensively and control possession with Baia at the X. Scranton is chasing a four-peat, while Catholic is looking for its first title since 2022 expect a high-intensity battle with everything on the line.

St. Mary’s (MD) (11-7) vs. Penn College (14-4) – United East Championship

A United East title and an NCAA Tournament bid is on the line as St. Mary’s (MD) and Penn College meet in what should be a highly competitive championship matchup. This has become a familiar spot for St. Mary’s, but Penn College has the firepower to make this one interesting.

St. Mary’s enters at 11-7 and continues to be the team to beat in the United East. The Seahawks bring a balanced approach with strong offensive production and a physical defensive unit that can control the tempo of the game.

Leading the way is Gavin McKay (71 pts), who has been a matchup problem all season, alongside Joshua Martel (44 pts) and Declan Horton (42 pts). On the defensive side, Joe Szymanski (32 CTs, 88 GBs, 6 pts) has been dominant, with Adam Martin (23 CTs, 37 GBs, 2 pts) and Bret Hussey (14 CTs, 32 GBs) providing additional support.

Penn College comes in at 14-4 and has put together an impressive season, powered by one of the most explosive offenses in the conference. The Wildcats have shown they can score with anyone and will look to push the pace in this one.

The offense is led by Elliot Dotson (89 pts), one of the top scorers in the country, alongside Owen Kupsey (69 pts) and Aidan McFalls (53 pts), who can take over games. Defensively, Ben Malarkey (13 CTs, 28 GBs, 3 pts), Ian Stambaugh (10 CTs, 26 GBs), and Austin Callahan (9 CTs, 12 GBs) will need to step up to slow down St. Mary’s offense.

These two met on March 28, where St. Mary’s came away with the win to remain unbeaten in conference play. Gavin McKay was the difference-maker, putting up a 7-point performance, while Elliot Dotson and AJ Dotson each had 4 points for Penn College in a competitive game.

DeeThreeLax Take
St. Mary’s has owned this matchup since joining the United East, and until proven otherwise, they’re still the team to beat. That said, Penn College has the offensive firepower to make this a real battle. If the Wildcats can keep pace and limit St. Mary’s defensive impact, this could be a tight game deep into the fourth quarter. Expect a competitive, high-scoring championship with a trip to the NCAA Tournament on the line.

Rivier (16-0) vs. St. Joseph’s (ME) (11-8) – GNAC Championship

The GNAC Championship is set, and all eyes are on undefeated Rivier as they look to finish off a perfect season and defend their conference title. Standing in their way is a dangerous St. Joseph’s (ME) squad with the firepower to make this interesting.

Rivier enters at 16-0 and has been the clear class of the GNAC all season. The Raiders have done it with balance across the board, a steady offense, disruptive defense, and elite goaltending that has consistently shut teams down in big moments.

Offensively, Conor Walsh (58 pts), Mason Schultz (52 pts), and Aiden Conley (49 pts) lead a well-rounded offense that doesn’t rely on just one option. Defensively, Colin Foley (31 CTs, 54 GBs, 13 pts) and Logan Layton (29 CTs, 40 GBs, 1 pt) have been dominant, with Luke Armano (18 CTs, 18 GBs) adding depth. In net, Jake Lydon (157 saves, 68% SV%) has been a difference-maker all season and will once again be a key factor.

St. Joseph’s (ME) comes in at 11-8 and will look to lean on its high-powered offense to pull off the upset. The Monks have shown they can score with anyone and will need to do just that to keep pace with Rivier.

Leading the way is  Nicolas Michaud (69 pts), Brandon Cavicchi (69 pts), and Joseph Kiedaisch (52 pts)  a group capable of taking over a game if they get rolling. Defensively, Kevin Wood (31 CTs, 42 GBs, 2 pts), Tony Samiotes (21 CTs, 43 GBs, 3 pts), and Alec Henry (18 CTs, 35 GBs, 2 pts) will need to come up big in slowing down Rivier’s balanced offense

These two met on April 15, where Rivier handled business with an 11-5 win. Jake Lydon was outstanding in goal, making 13 saves (72% SV%), while the offense saw balanced production from multiple contributors. Nicolas Michaud (3 pts) led St. Joe’s in that matchup.

DeeThreeLax Take
Rivier has been dominant all year and will look to cap it off with another GNAC title but championship games have a way of throwing out surprises St. Joe’s has the offensive firepower to make this a much different game than the first meeting, and if they can find a rhythm early, this could turn into a battle down the stretch. Still, Rivier’s balance and goaltending give them the edge but don’t be surprised if this one is much closer and comes down to the fourth quarter.

Baldwin Wallace (14-4) vs. Ohio Northern (11-6) – OAC Championship

Get ready for another chapter in one of the best rivalries in DeeThreeLax. Baldwin Wallace and Ohio Northern meet once again this time with the OAC title on the line and if history tells us anything, this one is going to be good.

Baldwin Wallace enters at 14-4 and has been one of the most explosive teams in the conference all season. The Yellow Jackets bring a high-powered offense and strong control at the faceoff X, making them a tough matchup for anyone.

Leading the way is a dominant trio in Bennet Trout (75 pts), Noah Dodgion (74 pts), and Paxton Allison (59 pts) one of the most dangerous offensive groups in the country. Defensively, Gavin Pate (13 CTs, 24 GBs) and Louden Peters (10 CTs, 24 GBs) provide stability, while Evan Vetter (278 FO wins, 69%) is a major factor in controlling possessions.

Ohio Northern comes in at 11-6 and once again finds itself in the OAC Championship, ready to battle a familiar opponent. The Polar Bears have proven they can compete with Baldwin Wallace and will look to lean on their strong offense to keep pace.

The offense is led by Jack Chaney (40 pts), with Aidan Sexton (28 pts), Cooper Mulligan (27 pts), and Nathan Flynn (25 pts) providing depth. Defensively, Ryan Frech (17 CTs, 34 GBs, 3 pts) and Alex Bergeron (16 CTs, 31 GBs, 2 pts)anchor a group that will need to come up with key stops.

These two met on April 15, where Baldwin Wallace grinded out a 15-14 win in another classic. Noah Dodgion (7 pts) led the way, with Bennet Trout (5 pts) and Paxton Allison (4 pts) contributing heavily. Ohio Northern saw big performances from Jack Chaney (6 pts) and Nathan Flynn (4 pts) in a game that came down to the final moments.

DeeThreeLax Take
At this point, you can almost pencil this matchup in as a one-goal game. The last several meetings including last year’s OAC Championship (10-9 Ohio Northern win) have all come down to the wire. Baldwin Wallace brings the offensive firepower and faceoff edge, but Ohio Northern has proven it knows how to win in this spot. With a title on the line, expect another back-and-forth battle that likely isn’t decided until the final possession.

Concordia (18-1) vs. Lake Forest (11-6) – NACC Championship

The NACC Championship is set, and it features a red-hot Concordia squad taking on a surging Lake Forest team that just pulled off a big upset to get here. With an NCAA Tournament bid on the line, this one has all the ingredients for a great championship battle.

Concordia enters at 18-1 and has been one of the most dominant teams in the country this season. The Falcons bring a high-powered offense, physical defense, and elite goaltending a combination that has overwhelmed opponents all year long.

Leading the charge offensively is a loaded trio in Bryce Petersen (76 pts), Jackson Knutson (72 pts), and Brayden Wilson (61 pts). Defensively, Ben Birch (31 CTs, 74 GBs, 11 pts) has been a force, with Sean McMullen (22 CTs, 35 GBs) adding support. In goal, Nolan O’Malley (196 saves, 67% SV%) has been outstanding and will be a key factor once again.

Lake Forest comes in at 11-6 after knocking off Aurora to punch its ticket to the championship. The Foresters are playing with confidence and will look to keep the momentum rolling against one of the top teams in the NACC. 

Offensively, Carson Pagel (42 pts), Aidan Wigton (39 pts), and Brendan Herbert (31 pts) lead the way. On the defensive end, Judson Norris (27 CTs, 32 GBs, 1 pt) and Avary Whitehead (15 CTs, 13 GBs, 1 pt) anchor the unit, while Gabe Boston (151 FO wins, 64%) will be key in battling for possession at the faceoff X.

These two met earlier this season, where Concordia took home a 13-10 win. The Falcons saw balanced offensive production, while Carson Pagel (5 pts) and Aidan Wigton (3 pts) led the way for Lake Forest in a competitive matchup.

DeeThreeLax Take
Lake Forest already pulled off one upset to get here, can they do it again? Concordia has been dominant all season and comes in as the clear favorite, but Lake Forest is playing with momentum and confidence. If the Foresters can control possessions and keep this game close early, things could get interesting. Still, Concordia’s offensive firepower and consistency give them the edge but don’t count out Lake Forest in what should be a fun championship matchup.

Oberlin (12-5) vs. Ohio Wesleyan (10-6) – NCAC Championship

The NCAC Championship is set, and it perfectly reflects how chaotic and competitive this conference has been all season. With a five-way tie for the regular season title, it all comes down to this, Oberlin and Ohio Wesleyan battling it out to claim the crown and punch their ticket to the NCAA Tournament.

Oberlin enters at 12-5 and has quietly put together one of the more complete seasons in the conference. The Yeomen bring a balanced offensive attack and a defense that thrives on creating turnovers and controlling the ground ball game.

Offensively, Jacob Starcke (58 pts) leads the way, with Solomon Brennan (48 pts) and Nicholas Cuda (48 pts)providing consistent production. Defensively, Cooper Rand (31 CTs, 56 GBs, 4 pts) and Colin Taylor (21 CTs, 55 GBs, 2 pts) anchor the defense while Joe Chai (16 CTs, 20 GBs, 2 pts) adds depth.

Ohio Wesleyan comes in at 10-6 and has shown flashes of being one of the most dangerous teams in the NCAC. The Battling Bishops have the offensive firepower to compete with anyone and will look to lean on that in a championship setting.

Leading the offense is a dynamic trio in Henry Ross (70 pts), Wade Beckstrom (68 pts), and Will Siegenthaler (45 pts). On the defensive side, Trey Weber (19 CTs, 30 GBs, 3 pts), Luca DiCarlo (31 GBs, 1 pt), and Luke Miller (10 CTs, 18 GBs) will need to step up against Oberlin’s attack.

These two met on March 28, where Oberlin controlled the game in a 16-7 win. Solomon Brennan and Asher Friedmaneach had 7-point performances, while Henry Ross (4 pts) led the way for Ohio Wesleyan.

DeeThreeLax Take
This is exactly what the NCAC has been all season…unpredictable. Oberlin dominated the first matchup, but Ohio Wesleyan has the offensive talent to flip the script. With a title on the line and two teams looking to prove they’re the best in a wide-open conference, expect a fast-paces game. If Oberlin can replicate its earlier performance, they’ll be tough to beat but don’t count out Ohio Wesleyan in a game that could look very different the second time around.

Dickinson (15-2) vs. Gettysburg (11-4) – Centennial Championship

Two Centennial powerhouses collide with everything on the line as Dickinson and Gettysburg meet for the conference title and an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. This is exactly the kind of matchup you expect at this stage with very little separating the two.

Dickinson enters at 15-2 and has been one of the most consistent teams in the country this season. The Red Devils bring a balanced offense and a defense that thrives on physical play and forcing turnovers.

Leading the offense is Ramsey Huggins (44 pts), with Preston Boyd (42 pts) and Drew Stark (31 pts) providing strong support. On the defensive side, Hayden Warren (28 CTs, 49 GBs, 5 pts) and Ethan Ferrant (24 CTs, 30 GBs, 4 pts) headline a unit that can control the pace of the game, with Ethan Ackerman (17 CTs, 24 GBs, 1 pt) adding depth.

Gettysburg comes in at 11-4 and has proven all season it can compete with anyone in the Centennial. The Bullets bring a high-powered offense and a physical defensive group that makes them a dangerous opponent in a championship setting.

Offensively, Jackson Hearn (56 pts), Jackson Barroll (52 pts), and Charlie Johnson (46 pts) lead the way. Defensively, Brian Delduchetto (19 CTs, 21 GBs), Jacob Derwinski (13 CTs, 27 GBs, 3 pts), and Will Hedley (12 CTs, 31 GBs, 10 pts) will be key in trying to slow down Dickinson’s attack.

These two met earlier this season in a 12-11 Dickinson win that came down to the wire. Drew Stark and Taner Marusaled the way for Dickinson with three points each, while Gettysburg saw big performances from Ethan Kessler and Charlie Johnson, who each had five points in a tightly contested battle.

DeeThreeLax Take
This has all the makings of a classic Centennial Championship. Dickinson got the better of Gettysburg the first time around, but not by much. With a title and NCAA bid on the line, expect a high-intensity game that goes deep into the fourth quarter. Both teams have the talent to win it’s going to come down to execution late and who makes the final play.

Nazareth (12-6) vs. St. John Fisher (16-2) – Empire 8 Championship

A rematch with everything on the line. Nazareth and St. John Fisher meet again this time for the Empire 8 title and an NCAA Tournament bid, after one of the biggest regular season upsets in the conference.

Nazareth enters at 12-6 and carries confidence after proving earlier this season that it can take down the top dog. The Golden Flyers bring a high-powered offense and a defense that has stepped up in big moments.

Leading the way is Matthew Farrington (89 pts), one of the most dangerous scorers in the country, alongside Kyle Rosenberger (69 pts) and William O’Neill (53 pts). Defensively, Nicholas Hinck (20 CTs, 59 GBs, 1 pt) and Connor Fundis (25 CTs, 18 GBs, 2 pts) anchor a physical group, with Carter Wegman (16 CTs, 25 GBs, 4 pts) adding versatility.

St. John Fisher comes in at 16-2 and has been the standard in the Empire 8 for years. The Cardinals bring experience, depth, and a balanced offense that has overwhelmed opponents throughout the season.

The offense is led by Lane Edinger (59 pts), Scott Bovard (59 pts), and Sean Donaldson (54 pts) a trio capable of taking over a game. On the defensive side, Ethan Hodge (23 CTs, 40 GBs, 2 pts), Jake Vernieri (19 CTs, 33 GBs, 3 pts), and Connor Gray (19 CTs, 24 GBs, 2 pts) provide a strong backbone.

These two met on April 18, where Nazareth stunned St. John Fisher with a 12-7 win one of the biggest results in recent program history. Kyle Rosenberger (5 pts) and Matthew Farrington (4 pts) led the charge, while Lane Edinger (3 pts) paced Fisher in the loss.

DeeThreeLax Take
This is the question: can Nazareth do it again? St. John Fisher has been the team to beat in the Empire 8, but Nazareth already showed it has the formula. Expect Fisher to come out motivated and adjust, while Nazareth looks to replicate its earlier success. With a title on the line, this should be a high-energy, physical battle and one of the most intriguing games of the weekend.