The Dexter Bearcats rallied back from the 13-0 deficit to defeat the Ste. Genevieve Dragons 28-13 earning their first District Championship since 2011 at Charles Bland Stadium.
The Ste. Gen Dragons quickly got on the scoreboard taking an early lead with a 60-yard touchdown with only 11:03 left in the first quarter. The extra point was successful.
Dexter's Christiaan Wirz made a crucial tackle to stop the Dragons at the one-yard line preventing another score. Ste. Gen added another touchdown ,but missed their opportunity to score the point after and led the Bearcats 13-0 at the half.
The Bearcats struggled throughout the first half.
"It was definitely a tale of two halves," stated head coach Chad Jamerson. "We faced challenges in the first half, a little impatience and a few missteps in the offensive play calling."
The momentum shifted with the 'Cats showing more enthusiasm in the second half. Devin Turnbo's interception stalled a Dragons' drive, leading to even more important moment for the Bearcats. Lee-Michael McDonald scored a 58-yard rushing touchdown, cutting the lead to 13-7. Parker King's point after was good. McDonald followed with another 34-yard run, bringing the Bearcats ahead 14-13.
"We made adjustments at halftime particularly by the defensive staff. They were instrumental in overcoming these challenges," continued Jamerson. "This allowed our team to become more physical and ultimately win the game for us. We had some key plays and big runs by Lee-Michael McDonald, which highly contributed to our victory over our opponent."
Turnbo had yet another touchdown on a 5-yard run with a successful extra point by Parker King bringing the lead to 21-13.
The crowd, the fans and the 'Cats really got excited with the touchdowns and the momentum revealed that of a District win in the sights. Nolan Alford scored a 13-yard touchdown, finalizing the score 28-13 after another successful point after by Parker King.
"We really focused on wearing them down which proved to be successful," stated Jamerson. "Their hard work and perseverance proved us right."
Donovan McNeil and Jaxson Miller contributed in big ways making key defensive plays and tackles.
The Dexter Bearcats improved to 11-0 marching deeper into the playoffs and for the first time in Dexter School history went 11-0 heading into the Missouri State play-offs.
"We have a lot of work to get done this week. Lift for Life has some speed about them, athletic and a strong defensive line," continued Jamerson.
While the upcoming game poses challenges, such as facing a large and strong opposition. There are opportunities in the opponent's defense that could be capitalized on by executing a strong running game combined with strategic passing. The Bearcats are hungry for a win and a state title run.
"We are so thankful for the community's support and dedication to our team," Jamerson commented. "With our work ethic and influence to provide positive experiences we are making real progress in our program."
The Dexter Bearcats will travel to Mehlville on Saturday, November 23rd with a kick-off time of 1 p.m.
