Posted: 10/13/04

Stillwater too much for the Rangers

Joe Drennan
Sports Editor

The struggles continued for the Forest Lake High School football team Friday night when Stillwater defeated the Rangers 23-7, dropping their record to 1-5 overall.

The Rangers were the first to the end zone when Trip Schultz broke free for an 80 yard run. Mark Moberg's extra point attempt was good and it looked as though the Rangers were going to be able to move the ball well on the ground.

ìWe felt like we were doing some positive things and when you get a big run that can always give you a little spark and a little fire,î Herman said.

Stillwater answered back in the second quarter when Jon Ylinen scored the first of three rushing touchdowns in the game. Ylinen broke free for a 35 yard run that ended in the end zone. Stephan Bjerke's extra point attempt was good and the game was tied 7-7. Later in the quarter Ylinen broke free for a 27 yard run that put six more points on the board for Stillwater. Bjerke's extra point attempt was good and both teams headed into the locker room at halftime with the score 14-7 in favor of Stillwater.

ìThe attitude was good, we were moving the ball and the game could very well have been even,î Herman said.

While the Rangers defense took over in the third quarter, only allowing a 21 yard field goal by Bjerke, the offense couldn't break through the Stillwater defense and get into scoring position.

ìWe only allowed three points in the third quarter but they (Stillwater) did a good job and we werenít able to move the ball very well on them,î Herman said.

With the game still close in the fourth quarter, Ylinen scored his third touchdown of the night when he broke free for a nine yard run. The extra point attempt was no good and the score was 23-7.

ìIt was a closer game than 23-7 as to how it was played, but you have to put points on the board and thatís what we werenít able to do,î Herman said.

By the end of the game, Schultz had compiled 174 rushing yards, bringing his season total to 755 yards.

ìHeís a quality back and one of the best in the conference,î Herman said. ìNot only does he have speed but he runs with power but he is impressive and heís a quality kid as well.î

The Rangers next game is Friday at Mounds View at 7 p.m.

ìMounds View, they donít do anything particularly fancy, they run a basic offense and defense,î Herman said. ìItís going to come down to who can execute and they have an experienced three year quarterback.î

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