Football | 11/7/2023 11:05:00 AM

Post-Game Summary: Oak Park High School Northmen vs. Staley High School Falcons
 
In a thrilling high school round two playoffs game, the Oak Park High School Northmen (10-0)  squared off against the Staley High School Falcons (4-7), producing a game filled with intense action, incredible plays, and heart-stopping moments.

While we aim to provide an unbiased account of the game, there's no denying that the Oak Park Northmen emerged victorious against the Staley Falcons for the first time in history, with a final score of 28-21.

---

First Quarter:
 
The Staley Falcons started the game with a 6-yard touchdown run, taking an early lead with a successful kick, scoring 7 points. Oak Park High School responded with an impressive field goal by '24 #17 Matthew Solorio, cutting the lead to 7-3. However, the Falcons extended their lead with a 9-yard touchdown pass and another successful kick, making it 14-3 in their favor.

---

Second Quarter:
 
The Oak Park Northmen were determined to fight back, and they did just that when '25 #14 Drew Clemens hauled in a 35-yard pass from quarterback '24 #2  Aiden Hinkle, followed by a successful #17 Solorio kick, bringing the score to 14-10. However, Staley answered with a 3-yard touchdown run, pushing their lead to 21-10.

---

Third Quarter:
 
The third quarter remained scoreless, as both teams' defenses tightened up, resulting in an intense standoff.

---

Fourth Quarter:
 
The final quarter proved to be a nail-biter. #14 Drew Clemens made a spectacular 10-yard touchdown reception from #2 Aiden Hinkle, and an excellent two-point conversion, connecting with '24 #7 Evan Braxton. This cut the Staley Falcons' lead to just 21-18. With the pressure on, the Oak Park Northmen delivered, as '24 #74 Logan Westling made a crucial safety, bringing them within one point at 20-21.
 
But the defining moment of the game came when '24 #7 Evan Braxton exploded with a remarkable 45-yard touchdown run, followed by another two-point conversion, taking the lead 28-21 in favor of Oak Park High School. The Northmen's defense held strong, ensuring that the Staley Falcons would not score again.

---

Final Thoughts:
 
In the end, Oak Park High School emerged as the victors in a remarkable comeback, proving their mettle and determination on the field. The (10-0) Oak Park Northmen showcased their resilience and skill, securing a memorable win over the Staley High School Falcons. This thrilling contest will undoubtedly be remembered as on of the highlight of this remarkable season.

Your Class 6 District 8 #1 Oak Park Northmen (10-0) will be hosting the #3 Park Hill High School Trojans (5-5) in the third round playoffs on Friday, November 10th, at 7 PM at Oak Park High School.

Be there and be loud!