The Swan Valley Vikings have had some strong defensive performances this fall, but perhaps none were more crucial than the shutout they pitched in the first round of the playoffs. This 38-0 victory allowed the team to advance to next week’s district semifinals.
There was only one scoring play in the first quarter, but it was one for the highlight reel. Khyree Harris burst through the line and outran all members of the Bluejays’ defense for a sixty-seven yard touchdown. The extra point moved the score to 7-0 in favor of Swan Valley.
Offensive output increased in the second quarter, as Swan Valley scored twice in that twelve minute frame. Senior quarterback Avery Goldensoph used his legs on the first score, as he ran seven yards into the end zone. In the final minute of the half, Goldensoph found Mark Adams on a seven-yard pass that gave the Vikings a 21-0 halftime lead.
Avery Goldensoph used his legs for another third quarter touchdown to extend Swan Valley’s lead. He ran thirty-eight yards through the defense and into the end zone to make it 28-0.
In the final quarter, Swan Valley racked up double digit points. They got the running clock enforced with 9:51 to play as Khyree Harris got back into the end zone, this time from thirteen yards out. With just over two minutes to play, Brady Alverson booted a thirty-four yard field goal to make it 38-0 Vikings, a final score they would win by.
Swan Valley has now won their playoff opener in each of the past four seasons. They hope to extend their second round winning streak to four years as well when they travel to Essexville Garber next week. The 6-1 Dukes shutout Saginaw in their playoff opener 49-0. These two teams met in Week 5, when Garber beat Swan Valley 56-32.
