The North Shelby Raiders exploded for 24 points in the fourth quarter of a 50-40 state quarterfinal win over Worth County Saturday.
The Raiders scored on the quarter’s first play.
That came after a scoreless third quarter. North Shelby’s next offensive drive featured a 26-yard pass to Drake Prange that set up a one-yard TD run for Daniel. Worth County responded with a score but the Raiders took firm control on a 41-yard passing touchdown from Daniel to Gannon Bowen. The successful two-point conversion put North Shelby up three scores.
Scoring in the first half was much like the fourth quarter. Worth County had possession while leading 18-6 but an interception by Bowen changed the complexion of the game. The Daniel-Bowen connection struck for the first time on the ensuing drive. Worth County was turned over on downs to allow the Raiders to strike again.
The two-point try was successful to give North Shelby its first lead of the game but it only lasted two plays.
North Shelby caught a break late in the first half when Worth County fumbled the ball away at its own 20. The Raiders took advantage.
Drake Prange had the reception. The Freeman Financial and Insurance Outstanding Player of the Game was Gannon Bowen, who unofficially ran for 126 yards with two touchdowns and caught four passes for 76 yards and two scores along with his key first half interception.
8-4 North Shelby will host Braymer in the state semifinals.
North Shelby coach David Stuckey Postgame:
