Hurley likely needs to win to make playoffs

By JASON JUNO

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PHILLIPS, Wis. — The playoffs are starting a week early in Hurley.

The Northstars likely need to win their regular-season finale against Rib Lake at Veterans Memorial Field Friday night to ensure a spot in the WIAA 8-player postseason field.

Hurley won their first six games and then fell 48-32 at Phillips Friday night in a battle for first place in the Northwoods East Conference. It seems a bit cruel to be fighting for your playoff life with a 6-1 record, but that’s the reality.

“That’s the way it is when there’s only 16 teams in the playoffs in this div...