Cole Bies Emerges as the Hero with Two Third-Period Goals in East Grand Forks’ 7-5 Win Over Hibbing

In a thrilling comeback, Cole Bies delivered a dramatic third-period performance that propelled East Grand Forks to a 7-5 victory over Hibbing, earning the team a spot in the Class A Championship. Bies scored twice in the final frame, first to tie the game, then again to give the Wave the lead, capping off a clutch performance.

Bies wasted no time getting things started in the third period, firing a hard wrist shot from the top of the circle just 11 seconds into the period to knot the game at 5-5. Just 39 seconds later Bies followed up with another rocket from nearly 50 feet out, this time sending the puck past the Hibbing goalie to give East Grand Forks a 6-5 lead. The Wave would add an empty-net goal to seal the win, but it was Bies’ two goals that were the game-changers.

Beyond his scoring, Bies displayed an all-around game that had a significant impact on both ends of the ice. He was physical in the corners, made smart outlet passes to transition the puck up ice, and played with precision defensively, using excellent gap control and an active stick to break up plays and keep Hibbing from dangerous chances.

For the game, Cole finished with 2 goals, 1 assist, 5 shots, and a +4 rating—an exceptional line that highlighted his importance to the team in every facet of the game.

East Grand Forks will now face St. Cloud Cathedral for the Class A Championship, with Bies riding high after his performance.