Gritty, unforgiving defense and spectacular goaltending; these two play styles haven’t been synonymous with the Benilde-St. Margaret’s hockey team in recent memory. Often, defensemen would have the opportunity to line-up slapshots and forwards would have a field day against opposing goaltenders while BSM’s goalie relaxes and watches the scoreboard light up, knowing that even if he has a rather poor performance, they’re likely to come out with a win.

Though this luxurious style of play hasn’t been tasted nearly as much this year for a BSM team that has struggled at times with a leaky defense and relying too much on their offense, a rematch with rival Wayzata in the section semifinal brought out the grittier side of the Red Knights that has only been seen in glimpses throughout the season.

The belief that rankings mean nothing once playoffs begin once again was proven, for although favored heavily to win, Wayzata was in for a dogfight. Every statistical category was dead even with both teams collecting 25 shots on goal and only 4 penalty minutes each. In this game, offense wasn’t going to determine whose ticket would be punched for Mariucci, but which team was more willing to play physical, block shots— anything possible to aid BSM goaltender Jalen Long, who had a phenomenal performance, only letting in a late goal in the third.

Both of BSM’s goals came in the second period. Nate Meyer struck first early in the second, assisted by Evan Fleming. Only minutes later, it would be Fleming’s turn to score, being assisted by Meyer.

The Trojans were able to strike with only a minute left, but it wasn’t enough, and BSM for the first time in years reigned victorious over Wayzata in the section tournament. For the third consecutive year, they will head to Mariucci for the Section 6AA Final, for a rematch with another rival in Eden Prairie. The Eagles have the edge in wins over the Red Knights this season in their matchups, but BSM certainly has momentum on its side.