Spring Grove had been in this situation before. The Lions have assembled an undefeated season, but have labored through some tight first halfs in doing so.

So managing just seven points in a first half in which they were otherwise dominant was a source of irritation, but also something they were confident they could overcome.

They did, scoring 20 unanswered points in the third quarter to pull away for a 27-7 victory over Stephen-Argyle.

“The experience of being in some close games helps,” Spring Grove coach Zach Hauser said. “We won a couple of close ones against Cleveland, and Verndale last week was up on us 6-0 early.”

It helps that Spring Grove has a difference-maker in Alex Folz. The junior quarterback continued his stellar postseason, rushing for 175 yards and four touchdowns, and adding 214 yards passing. In five section and state tournament games, Folz has rushed for 834 yards and 12 touchdowns and passed for 843 yards and six touchdowns.

“It’s getting pretty routine for Alex to have these types of performances,” Hauser said. “Anytime the ball is in his hands, we feel pretty good. Everything is clicking right now for Alex.”

The victory sends Spring Grove to the Prep Bowl next Friday for the first time in program history.

“This is definitely the best feeling I’ve ever had,” Folz said. “We’ve had the funnest season I’ve ever had and I can probably say the same thing for the others.”

Quarterback Alex Folz rushed for 175 yards and four touchdowns and passed for 214 yards, leading Spring Grove to a 27-7 victory over Stephen-Argyle in the Nine-Man semifinals.

The Lions (13-0) scored 20 unanswered points in the third quarter, breaking open a game that was tied 7-7 at halftime.

With the victory, Spring Grove qualifies for the Prep Bowl for the first time in team history.

Check back later for more on the game.