The Dell Rapids St Mary Cardinal football team dropped a 28-0 game to the Castlewood Warriors on Friday, September 22nd, in Castlewood. The game was called with 6:43 to go in the second quarter due to storms in the area. It was determined the game would be a final score and will not be resumed.
Both teams got off to a slow start offensively. Each team’s first possession resulted in three plays and then a punt. On the Cardinal’s second possessions, they were able to push the ball in to Castlewood territory. Unfortunately for the Cardinals, the Warrior defense held strong and forced a turnover on downs. On the very first play for Castlewood after getting the ball, Noah Wiersma scored on a 39-yard run. The extra point was good, and Castlewood lead 7-0 with 4:48 to play in the first quarter. After forcing another St Mary punt, Wiersma scored on another big run. This time Wiersma scored on a 25-yard run. The extra point was again made, and the Warriors led 14-0 with 1:50 to go in the first quarter.
The Cardinal offense was again able to get into Warrior territory in the second quarter. However, a fumble after a catch by Logan Gaspar was recovered by the Warriors. Three plays later Brandon Benike connected with Kaden Eng for a 42-yard touchdown pass with 7:49 to play in the second quarter. Castlewood led 21-0. The next drive for St Mary also ended in a turnover. Kaiden Brandenburger intercepted an Eli Longville pass inside the Cardinal 10 yard line. Wiersma scored on the next play on an eight-yard run with 6:43 to play. After the made extra point, the Warriors led 28-0.
It was at that point in the game the coaches and officials held a discussion for about five minutes. The decision was made to end the game with the approaching storms.
St Mary (1-4) will be at home for their next game on Friday, September 29th. The Cardinals will host Deubrook Area at Rickeman Field.