In a District XI 2A Championship clash, the Williams Valley Vikings emerged victorious over the Schuylkill Haven Hurricanes, securing a 28-13 win and punching their ticket to the PIAA State Tournament.
The matchup featured Schuylkill County’s last two teams standing, both boasting impressive 11-1 records. The Hurricanes had handed the Vikings their only loss of the season during Week 6, while Schuylkill Haven’s lone defeat came in their season opener against Blue Mountain. This was also a rematch to last year's championship game where the Vikings had won.
For much of the first half, the game was a defensive battle, with neither team able to capitalize on opportunities. A highlight came when Schuylkill Haven’s Leyden Hertz intercepted a pass deep in Hurricanes territory, but the team couldn’t convert the turnover into points.
With less than a minute remaining in the half, the Vikings broke the deadlock. Quarterback Brady Shomper connected with Blazer Lords on a 20-yard touchdown pass. Sage Smeltz’s extra point gave Williams Valley a 7-0 lead heading into halftime.
A Thrilling Second Half
The third quarter began with Williams Valley striking first. Shomper showcased his skill set with a 24-yard touchdown run, extending the Vikings’ lead to 14-0 after Smeltz’s extra point.
Schuylkill Haven answered back swiftly. Niko Carestia broke free for a 35-yard touchdown run, and kicker Hunter Correll’s extra point narrowed the gap to 14-7.
However, Williams Valley refused to give control. Later in the third quarter, Kian Krzyzanowski delivered a 60-yard touchdown run, with Smeltz once again nailing the extra point to put the Vikings ahead 21-7.
As time wound down in the fourth quarter, Krzyzanowski delivered the blow. He intercepted a pass with just under two minutes left and returned it 42 yards for a touchdown. Smeltz’s extra point pushed the Vikings’ lead to 28-7.
Schuylkill Haven made one last push in the final moments. Quarterback Brayden Fasnacht threw a 24-yard touchdown pass to Carestia with 1:34 left on the clock. However, the Hurricanes’ two-point conversion attempt failed, sealing the final score at 28-13.
Next Stop: PIAA State Tournament
With the victory, Williams Valley claims the District XI 2A title and advances to the PIAA State Tournament, where they will face Riverside next Friday or Saturday.
For Schuylkill Haven, the loss marks the end of a stellar season, as the Hurricanes finish with an 11-2 record.
As the Vikings prepare for the state stage, they carry the momentum of a championship win and represent Schuylkill County in the state tournament.
