A strong second quarter proved decisive as Rugby Middle pulled away from Polk County Middle for a 34-20 Blue Ridge Conference victory Thursday at Utz Field.
The Wolverines (3-3) struck first when Matthew Sokil broke free for a 19-yard touchdown run with 5:02 remaining in the opening quarter, giving Polk County a 6-0 advantage. But Rugby responded late in the first period to take an 8-6 lead and never trailed again.
The Raiders (5-1) seized control in the second quarter, capitalizing on two costly Polk County fumbles to build a commanding 28-6 halftime edge. The visitors scored three times in the period, including a touchdown with just two seconds remaining before the break.
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After Rugby extended its lead to 34-6 in the third quarter, Polk County mounted a fourth-quarter comeback effort. Sokil found the end zone for his second touchdown of the day, followed by Jax Gosnell’s successful two-point conversion to cut the deficit to 34-14.
The Wolverines’ defense created a late opportunity when Lukas Atkins intercepted a Rugby pass in the final minute. Gosnell capped the scoring with a short touchdown run as time expired, bringing the final score to 34-20.
The Wolverines will conclude their regular season next week with a road trip to Hendersonville Middle.
