Fargo Shanley Football Overcomes Turnovers to Defeat Fargo South 49-28
In an exciting matchup between two prominent high school football teams, Fargo Shanley showcased their resilience and offensive prowess as they overcame multiple turnovers to claim a convincing 49-28 victory over Fargo South. Despite some early setbacks, senior quarterback Landon Meier led the charge for the Class 3A No. 1-ranked Deacons, delivering an exceptional performance with five total touchdowns.
The Deacons’ offensive dominance was evident as they amassed an impressive 556 yards of total offense throughout the game. Meier proved to be a dual threat, both through the air and on the ground, rushing for 117 yards and three touchdowns on 19 carries while also displaying accuracy with a passing stat line of 22-of-32 for 254 yards and two touchdowns.
Despite committing four turnovers in the first half, including two interceptions and two fumbles, Shanley managed to maintain a 28-14 lead heading into halftime. Shanley head coach Troy Mattern highlighted the importance of avoiding turnovers and emphasized the team’s need to improve their performance in the red zone. Nonetheless, he commended their ability to overcome adversity and praised their overall performance.
Fargo South put up a strong fight, particularly on defense, but was eventually outmatched by the offensive firepower of Shanley. The Bruins, ranked No. 3 in Class 2A, showcased resilience and determination throughout the game. Bruins head coach Tyler Kosel acknowledged their efforts on defense and attributed the loss to facing a formidable opponent that excels at offensive execution.
The Deacons wasted no time responding to Fargo South’s opening score. Meier orchestrated an impressive drive, culminating in a 10-yard rushing touchdown that leveled the game at 7-7. In the second quarter, Meier found the end zone again, this time from 13 yards out, giving Shanley a lead they would hold onto. A 93-yard kickoff return by South’s Damarion Semanko kept the Bruins within striking distance, but a late touchdown connection between Meier and receiver Kaden Christmann solidified Shanley’s two-score advantage heading into halftime.
Shanley continued their dominance in the second half, scoring two unanswered touchdowns to widen the gap to 42-14. Christmann, Jordan Leininger, and Sam Ovsak all contributed to Shanley’s offensive success, with Ovsak leading the way with 12 receptions for 115 yards. Additionally, Chad Pollock and Carson Busek made valuable contributions to the ground game.
Fargo South showcased their offensive capabilities as well, finishing with 263 yards of total offense. Quarterback Brevin Wark displayed poise and determination, completing 19-of-34 passes for 222 yards and two touchdowns. Jaden Middleton, Reis Kessel, and Duwayne Mitchell were on the receiving end of Wark’s touchdown passes, while Semanko led the Bruins’ ground attack.
Looking ahead, Fargo South will seek to bounce back as they host Devils Lake in their upcoming game. Shanley, on the other hand, will face their next challenge against the formidable West Fargo Sheyenne, ranked No. 2 in Class 3A.
It was an eventful game filled with ups and downs for both teams, but ultimately, Fargo Shanley’s ability to overcome turnovers and showcase their offensive prowess proved instrumental in their resounding victory. With standout performances from Landon Meier and their dynamic receiving corps, the Deacons demonstrated why they remain the team to beat in Class 3A football.
