BREAKING: The Poquoson Islanders delivered a stunning performance against the Southampton Indians, clinching a decisive 42-6 victory in the Class 2 Region A semifinal on November 10, 2023, at Poquoson Middle School. With this win, the Islanders (11-1) are set for a highly anticipated showdown against the top-seeded Armstrong Wildcats (12-0) next week in Richmond.
Poquoson’s offensive strategy was clear: run the ball, and run it they did. The Islanders unleashed a powerful Wing-T rushing attack that racked up an impressive 429 yards without attempting a single pass. The dominance on the ground overwhelmed Southampton, leaving the Indians (7-5) struggling to keep pace.
Despite early hope for Southampton, led by star quarterback Zayden Pope, who had accumulated 2,013 yards and 19 touchdowns this season, their offense faltered. The Indians managed to drive to the Poquoson 15-yard line on their opening possession, but were thwarted by a determined Islanders defense.
After taking over on downs, Poquoson quickly established control. Star running back Austin Conley, with 154 yards on just nine carries, opened the scoring with a dazzling 39-yard touchdown run. Just minutes later, after an interception by Dom Galacgac, the Islanders marched 48 yards, culminating in a 4-yard touchdown plunge by Cody Little, who also contributed 101 yards on the ground.
The Islanders’ defense was relentless, allowing just 150 total yards and forcing Southampton into difficult situations. A fumble recovery at the Southampton 19 set up another quick score, with Galacgac racing in from the 19 to extend Poquoson’s lead to 21-0 with less than 10 minutes remaining in the first half.
Southampton did manage to score, using a trick play to connect on a 35-yard touchdown from Miguel Bradshaw to Qmarai Allen, reducing the deficit to 21-6. However, a penalty on the ensuing kickoff gifted Poquoson a short field, leading to another touchdown by Galacgac, increasing the lead to 28-6.
As the second half began, Poquoson continued its offensive onslaught. Conley dashed 62 yards for another touchdown, followed by a 5-yard score from Conley just one play after Little’s impressive 42-yard run. This pushed the Islanders’ lead to a staggering 36 points, triggering a running clock with 7:57 left in the third quarter.
Poquoson coach Elliott Duty praised his team’s performance, stating, “I thought we did a good job blocking tonight, everybody. The linemen, tight ends, running backs all did a good job opening holes.” He acknowledged the need for defensive improvements but expressed satisfaction with limiting a potent passing attack to just one significant play.
As the Islanders gear up for their championship clash against Armstrong, the excitement in Poquoson is palpable. Fans are eager to see if Poquoson can continue their dominance and secure a fourth consecutive regional title. Stay tuned for updates as the Islanders prepare for this critical matchup!
