Warroad pulled off their second straight upset, defeating Hawley for the Section 8AA championship. Photo by Taylor Lunemann
When these two teams squared off less than a month ago, defense was not part of the conversation as Hawley squeaked by 55-48. It was very different in the Section 8AA championship, as Warroad would win this revenge match by a score of 14-7.
-Jake Lunemann, MN Football Hub Staff
Aaron Haataja (No. 5) deflects a ball away from Josh Johnson (No. 28). Warroad held Hawley to just seven points after surrending 55 to them in the regular season. Photo by Taylor Lunemann
A hard fought battle from start to finish, Warroad came up with the big plays when it counted most and finished off Hawley by a score of 14-7.
Both teams relied heavily on their defense as both team’s punters were busy all day long. Penalties also factored in heavily in the first half as both squads had plenty of false starts and encroachment penalties.
One point is all the separated these teams for much of the game until the third quarter when Alex Sandahl came up with a short reception that turned into a 65 yard gain after breaking a few tackles. One play later Ross Merriman would put Warroad in front for good with a 19 yard scamper into the end zone.
Hawley finishes their season with only a single loss to go along with ten wins. Warroad pulls off their second consecutive upset to gain a state tournament trip. The will travel to The University of Minnesota-Morris’ Big Cat Stadium on Friday to take on Paynesville.
-Jake Lunemann, MN Football Hub Staff
1. Ross Merriman, Warroad
Merriman led the offense not only with his arm but also with his legs. He provided a much needed passing game when the run wasn't working as well. In the third quarter, he connected with Alex Sandahl for a 65 yard catch and run that set himself up for an eight yard touchdown run.
2. Alex Sandahl, Warroad
Warroad's top receiver had a phenomenal game. He was involved in both of the top plays of the game. In the second quarter, he made a leaping grab over a defender in the back of the end zone. He was able to hang on and get his feet inbounds for Warroad's first score. Then, in the third, he picked up a nice block from a teammate and broke free for a 65 yard catch that set up the go ahead touchdown.
3. Brady Pekas, Hawley
Hawley's running back had a solid game running the ball. He scored the lone touchdown for Hawley in the first quarter.
-Taylor Lunemann, Long Prairie Leader