Saints’ Defensive Stand Falls Short in 7-0 Loss to St. Cloud Cathedral

St. Cloud Cathedral turned a second-half interception return into the game’s only touchdown Friday night, handing the KMS Fighting Saints a 7-0 loss in a rain-soaked defensive battle. The return put the Crusaders in the red zone, and they followed with a touchdown and extra point that proved decisive.

The game was moved because of the weather and projected forecast, and steady rain contributed to a back-and-forth contest. KMS moved the ball effectively on the ground but could not finish its drives. Odin Shaw led that effort with a season-high 111 rushing yards on 29 carries, consistently giving the Saints a way to advance the ball in difficult conditions.

Hayden Duke provided another offensive highlight with a 26-yard reception. He also contributed on special teams with a 40-yard punt and recovered a fumble. Despite those gains and a productive rushing attack, the Saints were kept off the scoreboard as Cathedral protected its narrow advantage.

KMS kept the game within reach by forcing four turnovers and holding Cathedral to fewer than 100 total yards. Kason Helgeson and Storm Solis each intercepted a pass, while Solis and Duke recorded fumble recoveries. Solis also made an assisted tackle as the Saints swarmed to the ball and closed running lanes throughout the night.

Levi Jones paced the tackling effort with four solo stops, including two tackles for loss, and one assisted tackle. Kalan Van Heuveln added three solo tackles and two assists, while Michael Collins had two solo tackles, one tackle for loss and an assist. Shaw also recorded two tackles, helping KMS limit Cathedral’s offense even after the Crusaders gained favorable field position.

The Saints will look to turn their defensive production and improved ground game into points when they travel to face New Richland-Hartland-Ellendale-Geneva at 7 p.m. CDT Friday, Oct. 9.