Red Knights unable to use fast start to get past Pioneer
BSM goal 68 seconds into the game not enough as Hill-Murray steals momentum.
MAPLEWOOD, Minn. -- Junior Podein scored just 68 seconds into the game, but Hill-Murray answered less than two minutes later to start a three-goal run, which led to the third-ranked Pioneers claiming a 4-2 win over No. 12 Benilde-St. Margaret's.
The hosts had a 12-7 advantage in shots on goal during the game's first 17 minutes as Alex Beaton, in his second varsity start, kept the Red Knights even by turning aside 11 shots.
Hill-Murray controlled the play in the second period, with a 16-3 advantage in shot, which led to a pair of goals as the Pioneers built a 28-10 advantage in shot through two periods.
The Red Knights turned the tables in the final period, doubling up in shots over the hosts in the final 17 minutes.
BSM pulled to within a goal when Nick Johnson stipped the puck away and carried the puck up the left side before snapping a shot from left circle inside the near post with 5:39 to play.
Caden Zasada intercepted a pass and deposited the puck into an empty net with 47.2 seconds to play to seal the win.
Beaton stood up to the pressure of his first game versus a ranked opponent, stopping 30 of the 33 shots he faced despite suffering the loss.
The Red Knights are in action again, Saturday, when they return home for a 7 p.m. Metro West Conference game with New Prague.
Nick Johnson's third-period goal ended a three-goal run by Hill-Murray.
