by Fostoria, OH – In the Division 1 Semifinals, the Perrysburg Yellow Jackets (11-2) fell to the Olentangy Liberty Patriots (9-4) at neutral site, Fostoria High School, on Friday night.
These two teams had completely different paths to the playoffs, as the Yellow Jackets dominated since Week 2 of the regular season.
However, the Patriots battled through adversity after a three game losing streak in the beginning of the season.
Olentangy Liberty saw a tough schedule as all 10 of their opponents in the regular season won a playoff game, with four of those teams competing in the third round.
QUARTER 1
Perrysburg’s opening drive was forced to a quick punt, but the defense stepped up on Liberty’s first possession as sophomore defensive back Dylan Blubaugh sacked sophomore quarterback Andrew Leonard for a loss of 10.
The Yellow Jackets drove down the field, but senior quarterback TJ Takats pass was intercepted by senior Alex Okuley in the endzone.
The Patriots capitalized on the opportunity as Leonard connected with junior receiver Evan Nelson for a 68-yard touchdown reception.
Olentangy Liberty would maintain the lead for the remainder of the matchup.
QUARTER 2
Both teams went back and forth until the Yellow Jackets final drive of the half shortened the gap on a 34-yard field goal by senior Adrian Bibb.
After a scoreless 23 minutes, Perrysburg had to settle for a field goal.
Olentangy Liberty up 7-3 at the half.
QUARTER 3
Both teams would be stout on defense, resulting in a scoreless half.
QUARTER 4
Perrysburg moved the chains early in the fourth, but fell short on a field goal attempt from a dropped snap.
Olentangy Liberty would find the endzone on a 25-yard touchdown reception by Okeluey, securing a 11 point lead with just over two minutes left.
In the Yellow Jackets’ fighting effort to comeback, Patriots senior strong safety Nathan Maag forced a fumble with two minutes left in the contest.
Olentangy Liberty’s Andrew Leonard would pace the offense with two touchdown passes that made the difference in the game.
Olentangy Liberty advances to the Regional Finals next Friday (TBD).
Image: olentangylibertyathletics.com
