Putnam County had a strong close to the first half and rolled in the second half to defeat Hayti 53-22 in a Class 1 semifinal Saturday.
Hayti had a strong kick return to start the game and eventually scored on 4th and goal. Putnam responded with a 4th down score of its own on the next drive.
There were five straight scoring drives to start the game. Hayti forced a turnover on downs to get the ball back with a 22-13 lead. That’s when Putnam’s defense countered with its first stop on a three-and-out. The Midgets scored on the ensuing drive to get within three. The big swing came when they followed with an onside kick recovery and cashed in again.
Putnam received the second half kick with a 25-22 lead. Angstrom Watt kept the team’s foot on the gas.
Hayti fumbled the ball away on its next two possessions and the Midgets turned both turnovers into scores to pull away.
Watt unofficially had 18 carries for 269 yards and three touchdowns to be named Freeman Financial and Insurance Oustanding Player of the Game. Treven Riediger had seven carries for 94 yards and two touchdowns along with two receptions for 28 yards and a score. Rayden Chapman completed 5-of-7 passes for 77 yards and two TDs. Corbin Campbell-Johnson had a 19-yard rushing touchdown.
The early deficit was the first time Putnam has trailed in a game all season. The Midgets move to 13-0 and will play in a state title game for the first time since 1989. They oppose 12-1 Tipton at 3pm Friday from Spratt Stadium in St. Joseph.
Putnam County coach Adam Huse Postgame:
