🏈 Dominant second half propels Hutch Salthawks past Valley Center Hornets

ANTHONY GORGES
Hutch Post

VALLEY CENTER, Kan. — The Hutchinson Salthawks used a strong second-half performance to defeat the Valley Center Hornets 32-18 on Friday night in the regular-season finale.

After a back-and-forth first half, Hutchinson’s defense took control, and the Salthawks capitalized on key opportunities to secure the victory.

Valley Center scored the game’s first touchdown on a 2-yard run by quarterback Isaac Duncan. The Hornets converted a two-point attempt after a Hutchinson penalty to take an early 8-0 lead.

Hutchinson responded when freshman Kendrick Green intercepted a pass deep in Valley Center territory and returned it for a touchdown. The extra point failed, leaving the Hornets with an 8-6 lead after the first quarter.

Scoring picked up in the second quarter as Valley Center added a 27-yard field goal. Hutchinson answered with a 10-yard touchdown run by Brodie McCuan to take a 12-11 lead.

The Hornets responded on the next play from scrimmage when Duncan connected with Spencer Crumrine for a 57-yard touchdown, putting Valley Center back in front 18-12.

Hutchinson regained the lead just before halftime. Junior quarterback Davin Morgan capped a late scoring drive with a rushing touchdown with 19 seconds remaining in the half. The extra point was good, giving the Salthawks a 19-18 advantage at the break.

The Salthawks extended their lead in the second half after forcing a Valley Center turnover on downs. Four plays later, Morgan kept the ball on an option play and raced 37 yards for his second rushing touchdown of the night. The successful extra point gave Hutchinson a 26-18 lead.

Hutchinson’s defense continued to apply pressure, forcing two three-and-outs and two additional turnovers on downs, including one in the red zone. The Salthawks added a late touchdown to secure the 32-18 victory.

With the win, Hutchinson improved to 3-5, while Valley Center fell to 2-6.

Official postseason brackets and pairings will be released by the Kansas State High School Activities Association. (We believe Hutchinson will be the #9 seed and play at #8 Emporia next Friday night). 

As always, you can hear all Salthawk football games on 98.5 FM / 1450 AM KWBW Radio.