Irish defeat Lakers 44-6

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The Maple Lake Irish faced off against their long-time conference rival, the Howard Lake-Waverly-Winsted Lakers(AA). The game was much anticipated between the two teams, as the Lakers came into the game 2-0, with momentum on their side and the Irish looking to bounce back after a close defeat with Pierz the previous week. Going into the game both teams expected a close and tight game, but that was not the case, as Maple Lake demolished the visiting Lakers 51-6.
Howard Lake’s first two games had taken place against struggling programs in the Spectrum Sting (Elk River) and the Kimball Cubs. The Lakers beat both teams by over 30, this didn’t faze the Irish. Maple Lake’s week of practice was very physical and they were determined to beat the Lakers, in what could be their final meeting of the season. “Games against Howard Lake are very important to our team, especially to the seniors, because we have been beating them for many seasons and they want to keep it up and leave the program with a victory against them…” Head Coach Tim Knudsen acknowledged the importance of the long time rivalry between the two teams.
The Irish won the coin toss and received the opening kickoff. With the ball at midfield, Maple Lake attempted to strike first and break down the Lakers confidence with a deep ball downfield. The pass fell incomplete, intended for Ryan Kalinowski. The next play was a major success, with a 50-yard touchdown from  senior Dustin Strub. “We knew going into the game  if we scored on our first two drives and stopped them at least once we would beat them,” junior linebacker Lucas Fobbe concluded after the game.  His prediction was correct. On their next drive, the Irish scored again with another sweep from Strub. Maple Lake’s next defensive stand ended when Dominic Kaley stripped the ball, causing a fumble. Recovering the ball gave the Irish offense great field position. However, miscommunication led to an interception and put the Lakers on their own 10.
More information and stats appear in this week's Messenger.

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