Class A Semifinal Mayer Lutheran 41 New York Mills 6

Mayer Lutheran’s quest for a championship season remained alive and well following a 41-6 victory over New York Mills in the Class A semifinals on Saturday, Nov. 20 at U.S. Bank Stadium. It will be the Crusaders’ first appearance in a championship game in seven state tournament trips.

The Crusaders (12-1) will face Minneota (13-0) for the Class A championship on Friday, Nov. 26 in Game 1 of the seven-game, two-day Prep Bowl event.

Senior quarterback Ty Hoese was Mayer Lutheran’s spark throughout the semifinal step, completing 9 of 16 passes for 221 yards and five touchdowns. His long scoring strike was a 62-yarder to senior receiver Elijah Jopp early in the second quarter that gave the Crusaders a 28-0 lead. Earlier, those two connected on a 40-yard touchdown pass. Mayer Lutheran had a quick two touchdown advantage and senior tight end Teigan Martin was largely to thank. He and Hoese opened the scoring on a 33-yard touchdown pass. Moments later, he returned a blocked punt 40 yards for another touchdown and an early dominating lead.

Senior defensive end Caden Robbins led the Crusaders with two sacks and he also had four solo tackles.

New York Mills (10-2) got on the scoreboard in the third quarter following a 15-yard touchdown reception from senior quarterback Bren Salo to senior wide receiver Noah Noffsinger.