HAYS, Kan. – For the second year in a row #19-ranked Northeastern State will spar against Fort Hays State on Thursday evening for the NCAA Central Region Championship. 

A postseason do or die meeting with the Tigers is a common theme for the RiverHawks.  Thursday is the fourth time in the last seven seasons that NSU and Fort Hays will play for the region's crown. 

The RiverHawks won the 2012 meeting and took a 2-1 thriller in Philippi, W. Va. last fall, Fort Hays State advanced in 2014 on a shoot-out.

In 20 meetings, five have been draws, with the RiverHawks winning seven overall. 

Both teams have been idle for nearly two weeks with NSU wrapping up the regular season by not allowing a goal in its last five contests.

Four wins stand in the way from a national championship for Northeastern State. Should NSU advance, on Saturday they will face the winner of the Ohio Valley and Saginaw Valley match, which takes place in Hays at 4 p.m. on Thursday. 

Kickoff from Hays is slated to start at 7 p.m. with live scoring and free video being provided through Fort Hays State.