CHISHOLM— The Timberwolves forced four Chisholm turnovers here last Friday but couldn’t take advantage in another defense-dominated contest that allowed the Bluestreaks to claim their first win of the season, 20-12.
Chisholm struck quickly on their opening drive to take a 7-0 lead, but the Wolves’ defense adjusted, keeping the ‘Streaks under wraps the next few drives. Ely put its first points on the board early in the second quarter on a 17-yard dash by senior Gavin Marshall for six.
Chisholm hit pay dirt later in the quarter to push their lead to 14-6, but the Wolves closed the gap just ahead of the break with a 13-yard pass play from senior quarterback Deegan Richards to Alex Merriman, good for Richards’ first touchdown pass of the season.
Defense ruled much of the rest of the way as neither team could put points on the board in the third quarter. Chisholm had its chances at times, but two interceptions by Richards halted threats. Junior Garrett Rohr also notched a fumble recovery in Ely territory, but the Wolves weren’t able to capitalize.
The Wolves appeared to be building a bit of momentum and had pushed Chisholm to third and long at their own ten-yard line. But the ‘Streaks called a fullback break up the middle and it went 90 yards for a touchdown. While deflated, the Wolves didn’t fold and they blocked the subsequent extra point attempt to keep the margin to eight points. “That was one of our biggest plays of the game,” said Ely Head Coach Louie Gerzin.
The Wolves had another opportunity later in the quarter when senior Chase Anderson stripped the ball from a Chisholm rusher, giving Ely a first-and-ten at midfield. “But we just couldn’t get anything going,” said Gerzin. “Chisholm’s defense pushed us back on our heels.”
Improving their offensive performance remains key for the Wolves as they prepare to host Braham on Friday. “Until we can consistently put points on the board, that’s going to continue to be our focus,” said Gerzin.
The Wolves did show some progress against Chisholm. For the first time all season, the Wolves turned to the pass with some regularity. Richards had some success, racking up 53 yards passing, including his touchdown strike to Merriman and a 40-yard completion to junior receiver Brady Eaton.
Marshall racked up 50 rushing, including his second quarter touchdown, while Richards scrambled for 42 yards.
Anderson led the way on defense with ten tackles and his fumble recovery. Sophomore Jesse Oelke posted seven tackles, while Rohr added four tackles and his fumble recovery. Senior Matt Bock tallied five tackles while senior Braydin Mosher posted three.