LONDON — South Laurel picked up one of its biggest wins of the season Friday night, defeating Southwestern 38-28 on the road and setting up a showdown with cross-town rival North Laurel for the district’s No. 2 seed.
The Cardinals improved to 7-2 with the victory.
“We are very excited to have a win tonight in a stadium where I am told South Laurel has never won before,” South Laurel coach John Hines said. “This is a huge district win for our team, for our program, and for all Cardinal Nation.”
South Laurel had several players contribute on both sides of the ball. Hines praised Kenyon Ellis, Ross Ryser and Davieon Williams for their work defensively, while quarterback Maddox Warren turned in a strong night through the air.
“Really proud of the way we battled all night long,” Hines said. “Give credit to Southwestern. They played well. Kenyon Ellis was solid defensively, as was Ross Ryser and Davieon Williams. Maddox really had a nice night throwing the football.”
Ellis also made a major impact offensively, while Noah Ison helped carry the rushing attack.
“Kenyon Ellis was a hard guy to cover and made some big plays and great catches,” Hines said. “Noah Ison ran the ball hard. Our offensive line had a strong game, especially in the second half. Pass protection is getting better and better.”
Caleb Roark and Bryson Middleton also came up with key receptions, while Tripp Taylor and Logan Webb added strong defensive performances.
“Caleb Roark made some big catches, as did Bryson Middleton,” Hines said. “Defensively Tripp Taylor and Logan Webb had good outings.”
Senior kicker Cullen Dalrymple continued to be a reliable weapon for the Cardinals, adding another field goal and converting every extra-point attempt.
“Senior kicker Cullen Dalrymple had another field goal and was 100 percent on extra points,” Hines said. “He has really been a weapon for us for the last three seasons.”
South Laurel will now turn its attention to North Laurel, with the district’s No. 2 seed on the line next week.
“I’m proud of our coaching staff, the way they work, and the way they continue to prepare this team to play every Friday night,” Hines said. “It’s great to be a Cardinal.”
