The series between the Muskies and Eagles began when both joined the Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference in 2006. Benedictine has held command of the series of late winning the last 10 meetings, including a 4-1 victory at Taylor Field last year Oct. 1, 2022, as Berto Castillo scored twice for the Eagles. Jordan Davis-Troller scored the lone goal for the Muskies. The two teams have tied three times, the last a 2-2 draw in 2011, while Lakeland last defeated the Eagles on Sept. 12, 2009, when Ryan Malo scored the go-ahead goal in the 74th minute of a 4-3 Muskie win.

Lakeland last time out: Lost to MSOE 1-0 Wednesday
The Muskies gave a hearty challenge to the perennial NACC power Raiders on Wednesday but a mistake early in the second half proved to be the difference. A foul in the box gave MSOE a penalty kick opportunity just over two minutes into the second half, and the guests converted after two chances. Zach Heiman stopped the first PK attempt, but was called for leaving his line too early, allowing MSOE's Freddy Comparato a second chance to kick it in. Lakeland was outshot 14-4 but had several quality chances, including a header by Chris Maschio on a free kick cross by Joseph Reyes in the 79th minute, but the Muskies lost their second 1-0 decision in conference play. Heiman made six saves in the defeat.

Even with the two conference shutouts, Lakeland has scored 15 goals this season, putting the Muskies well on their way to exceeding their total of 25 goals scored all of last year. Michael Barragan has scored five goals, currently putting him tied for fourth in the NACC in goals scored.

Benedictine last time out: Lost to Dominican 2-1 Wednesday
The Eagles also lost a close one early in the week, falling to the Stars after a late goal. Benedictine tied the score at 1-1 when Mark Sklarczyk scored in the 74th minute, but Dominican scored what proved to be the game-winner with just 5:34 left in the match to keep the Eagles winless in the NACC. Mateo Reyes made seven saves in goal for Benedictine, which was outshot 19-4 for the match, including the Stars holding a 9-3 lead in shots on goal. The Eagles once again were close in a conference match, having also tied St. Norbert and fallen to Concordia Wisconsin 2-0 only after the Falcons scored twice in the final seven minutes.