The Stillwater Ponies secured a decisive 37-14 victory against the Mounds View Mustangs on September 29, 2023, despite facing multiple weather delays and losing their starting quarterback. Junior wide receiver Carter Zollar emerged as the standout player, catching three touchdown passes to lead his team on Homecoming night at Mustang Stadium.
Weather Delays and Game Dynamics
The match, which began with a 30-minute delay due to inclement weather, was interrupted again with 5:28 left in the first quarter due to lightning. At that time, Stillwater was poised to score from the Mounds View 5-yard line after recovering a fumble on the Mustangs’ opening drive.
When play resumed after a break of about an hour, Stillwater’s junior quarterback Jack Runk connected with senior Chase Edstrom for a 5-yard touchdown pass. The Ponies’ defense then halted Mounds View’s next possession, leading to Runk’s quarterback sneak for a second touchdown. Even though the extra point attempt was blocked, Stillwater gained an early lead of 13-0 with just over a minute left in the first quarter.
The Mustangs struggled to maintain possession, again turning the ball over on downs at the Stillwater 41-yard line. This set the stage for a 14-yard touchdown pass from Runk to Zollar, followed by a fumble recovery by the Ponies during the subsequent kickoff. Runk then found Zollar again for a 4-yard touchdown pass, extending the lead to 27-0 with 4:36 remaining in the second quarter.
Defensive Strength and Second Half Challenges
As halftime approached, Mounds View threatened to score but were thwarted when junior defensive back Liam McGlynn intercepted a pass in the end zone. The game faced yet another weather delay, pushing the start of the second half back by approximately 30 minutes.
Upon resuming play, McGlynn continued to shine defensively with another interception. Runk then executed an impressive 80-yard pass to Edstrom, leading to a 30-yard field goal from senior kicker Colin Johnston. Unfortunately for Stillwater, Runk left the game after sustaining an injury during the drive.
Following Runk’s exit, Mounds View managed to score with a 17-yard touchdown catch by senior Cayden Tran. In response, backup quarterback Ben Fredericks connected with Zollar for a 33-yard touchdown pass, bringing the score to 34-7 with 11:09 left in the game. Mounds View concluded the scoring with a 20-yard catch by senior Godson Rufus-Okomhanru.
This match not only showcased the skill and determination of the Stillwater Ponies but also highlighted the unpredictable nature of high school football, influenced by external factors like weather and injuries. As the season progresses, both teams will be looking to build on their performances and improve in upcoming games.
