The scene from the X as we went to Overtime

 
ST. PAUL, MN - Conrad Sampair scored two goals including the game-winner in overtime to help Hill-Murray defeat Moorhead 2-1 in the first of the Class AA state semi-finals Friday night.

The Pioneers (23-6) struggled to get the puck by Spuds goalie Michael Bitzer for most of the night, but Sampair scored once with seven minutes left in the third period and again less than two minutes into overtime.

Sampair said after the game that it was his team's physical play that got him going, as the Pioneers checked Spud forwards time and time again early. Terry Leabo was knocked out of the game in the first period when Blake Heinrich hit him near the blue line, but returned later in the second period.

Moorhead coach Dave Morinville said the Pioneers' physical style of play allowed his team to control much of the first period, and they led 1-0 after a Cody Rahman goal with just under 10 minutes left.

"I thought it took them out of their game," Morinville said.

Hill-Murray adjusted and was able to expose the Spud defense in the second period, getting multiple looks from the slot by forwards Sampair and Blake Heinrich. Morinville said his team started to play not to lose after the first period.

"They stepped it up and we stopped containing guys," he said. "It seemed like we quit skating and quit playing the game."

The Pioneers finally put one home when Sampair scored on a rebound from a shot by his brother Charlie, tying the game with seven minutes left. He then finished off the Spuds in overtime with an impressive shot while falling to the ground, sending his team to the finals.

They will have a chance to win their first state championship since 2008, and will face the winner of Lakeville South and Benilde-St. Margaret's Saturday night at the Xcel Energy Center. Sampair said after the game it has always been his dream to play for a state championship.

"Being here with this team is unreal," Sampair said.