In what seemed like an early blowout turned into a tense matchup of skill and determination between boys varsity football teams from Lincoln City’s own Taft Tigers and the Sisters High Outlaws.

As the Tigers took the field, bursting through a paper banner at midfield, the crowd of students, parents and local football fans roared their appreciation for the effort and dedication of the Taft Tiger varsity football team.  With a fight for a state title on the line the Tiger fans and players seemed ready to give their all for each other.

By the end of the first quarter Taft held a 14-0 lead.

The second quarter seemed to follow the first with a beautiful touchdown pass from Quarterback Ezra James to tight end Cole Tolan giving the Tigers a commanding  21-0 lead.

As was to be expected the crowd was jubilant sensing a blowout. But, the determined Outlaws weren’t ready to roll over and concede the battle and forced a tense quiet over the crowd as they quickly scored two touchdowns (minus extra point field goals) to bring the score to a manageable 21-12.

At the eleven minute mark of the 4th quarter Taft intercepted a pass and returned it for a touchdown making the score 27-12.

Sisters bravely continued to fight bringing the game to a draw at 27-27.  Trenton Battle of the mighty Tigers brought the final touchdown of the game giving Taft a 34-27 victory.

Special thanks to Aaron Williams of Zealous Training Lab for the photos and play by play updates.