Hill-Murray at Benilde-St. Margaret’s
2:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 6

No. 4-2A Hill-Murray (1-0-0) was expected to be led by its defensive corps, and that hasn’t changed after one game.

Not only did the Pioneers’ blue liners slow Burnsville in a 3-2 Hill-Murray victory last Saturday, they also scored the final two goals (by seniors Jacob Olson and Davis Zarembinski).

Coach Bill Lechner went with Sean Wendlandt in goal in the first game, and the veteran senior responded, making 27 saves on 29 shots. He’s battling sophomore Jake Begley for the starting gig.

No. 7-2A Benilde-St. Margaret’s (2-0-0) will provide a stiff test for the Pioneers’ defense, as the Red Knights have been known as an offensive powerhouse over the past few years.

That status appears intact after they scored 12 goals in two big victories to start the season, 7-1 over East Ridge and 5-3 over Elk River — both on the road. The Red Knights’ depth led the way, as 10 different players have already scored a goal, paced by two each from Zach Risteau and Chase Jungels.