No controversial calls. No gadget plays. Edina and Centennial decided the outcome of their game on four runs from 2 yards or closer to the goal line with a little more than one minute to play.

Edina turned back the Cougars on four rushing attempts to clinch a 7-0 road victory and the program’s first state tournament appearance since 2012.

“That was an amazing effort,” Hornets senior linebacker Nick Bloom said. “We got the stop and we are going to state.”

No. 2 seed Centennial (8-2) began its final drive at its 28-yard line, trailing 7-0 after Edina running back Matt Cavanagh’s 1-yard touchdown run in the third quarter. The Cougars were clutch, converting four times on third down to preserve possession. Quarterback Ryan Koob ran to Edina’s 4-yard line to set up the final confrontation.

So confident in scoring were the Cougars, coach Mike Diggins said his team was going for a two-point conversion and the play was already determined.

“We were going for the win,” Diggins said.

Running back Sam Bonfe carried on first and second down for minimal gains. Then Koob, who battled through a left leg injury suffered in the first half, kept the ball on third and fourth down.

Edina’s defense rose up each time. stopping Koob for good with 12.5 seconds left. The No. 3 seed Hornets (8-2) kneeled down on offense to run out the clock. Players later celebrated by making snow angels.

“I give Edina all the credit,” Diggins said. “That’s a helluva goal line stop on us. We haven’t been stopped on the goal line all year.”

The weather slowed each team in the first half. Centennial lost its second fumble with 2:45 to go before halftime while driving to Edina’s 20-yard line. Edina lost a fumble on its first drive. The Hornets also neglected to punt twice and turned the ball over on downs each time.

“That was one of our worst first halves of all time but we were still in the game,” Bloom said. “We came out in the second half ready to go and just wanting to smash these kids.”

Centennial hit back, right up to the final play.

“I’m proud of our kids for taking a really good football team to the limit,” Diggins said.