Stillwater vs Benilde-St. Margaret’s

In Down the Alley’s inaugural Game of the Week, and first of 2023, we have a rematch from the 2022 State Tournament Semifinal. Stillwater versus Benilde-St.Margaret’s. BSM went on to defeat Stillwater 15-10, as well as win the 2022 State Tournament for the second year in a row.

            Last season’s match up saw 10 points from now BSM senior Carsen Brandt, including 7 assists from the righty attackman. BSM also benefitted from 6 goals total from now juniors Gus Bell, Sky Rold, and Hunter Payer. Stillwater does not have their stats for this game published.

            While last year is in the past, BSM returns a large chunk of their production. The DTA unanimous Section 5 preseason favorite only loses 54 of their 267 (20%) goals from last year and the powerhouse offense will look to continue in stride this year. Averaging 14 goals per game last season, the Red Knights will force opponents to both lock down on the defense end, as well as match their offensive firepower.

            The biggest loss for the Red Knights does not come on the field but from the sideline. Legendary Head Coach Rob Horn and DC Sean Klemetsrud both deciding to hang up whistle after back-to-back State Titles. The reigns have now been passed to 2022 BSM OC Giuseppe Palermo and former Maple Grove Head Coach Joe Weichert takes over the defensive unit.

            Meanwhile, the Ponies of Stillwater will look to avenge last year’s semi-final loss. Coming off a 15-4 2022 campaign, Stillwater is primed for another successful season. The Section 4 name stay will look to repeat as Section Champs in 2023. 2022 presented Stillwater with multiple runs at top 5 teams in the state, including against both State Final participants.

            Averaging 8.73 goals per game last year, the Ponies relied heavily on their defense to stifle the opponent’s offense. The defensive stronghold averaged an impressive 5.10 goals against per game last season. Perhaps this is the unit capable of derailing the dangerous BSM offense.

            While game one of the season rarely determines the eventual outcome for any program, both teams will look to begin the 2023 campaign with an important win. BSM will look to continue their 31-game winning streak, stretching all the way back to May 12, 2021, while Stillwater will look to prove to the state they belong the ring with the other top tier teams. Clear your calendars because this game will surely start the year off with a bang.