GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX) — Grand Junction advanced to the state semifinals in Denver with a 9-7 win over Telluride in a tightly contested quarterfinal matchup.

The Tigers and Miners traded goals throughout the game, with neither team able to create much separation for most of the contest. Telluride repeatedly answered Grand Junction’s scoring efforts, keeping the pressure on in a physical, back-and-forth battle from start to finish.

Grand Junction took control in the fourth quarter, claiming a 7-6 lead with seven minutes remaining. From there, the Tigers’ defense stepped up, limiting Telluride’s offensive opportunities while adding two key late goals to secure the victory.

The defensive effort in the closing stretch proved decisive as Grand Junction held the Miners to just one goal over the final seven minutes.

With the win, the Tigers keep their postseason run alive and move on to the semifinals.

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