In a thrilling Class AA quarterfinal state playoff game at Williamstown High School, the fourth-seeded Yellowjackets emerged victorious over Wheeling Central with a 29 - 21 score. This win keeps Williamstown's pursuit of a possible third straight state championship alive. The Yellowjackets, now 10 - 2, await the outcome of Saturday's quarterfinal matchup between No. 8 Bluefield and No. 1 Frankfort.

Coach Beck's Resilience

Similar to their previous games where they overcame significant deficits, Williamstown showed remarkable resilience in this match. After facing two second-half turnovers that Wheeling Central turned into touchdown drives, the team didn't give up. Coach Chris Beck emphasized the team's never-quit attitude, stating, "Last time we played Wheeling Central we had three turnovers and were down 19 - 0; Marietta we were down two touchdowns and we came back. Even the Frankfort game, that was a good game until the end. Our guys will not quit fighting."The team's aggressive approach was on full display when, instead of going for an extra point to tie the game, they decided to go for two. Lynken Joy found the end zone, giving Williamstown a 22 - 21 lead with 9:02 remaining in the fourth quarter. Beck's decision to control their own destiny paid off.

Joy's Phenomenal Performance

Quarterback Lynken Joy was a force to be reckoned with. He scored all four Yellowjacket touchdowns and finished the game with an impressive 233 yards rushing on 41 carries. Beck praised Joy's hard-nosed play, saying, "Lynken is phenomenal. He is as hard-nosed as they come. Tough, nothing flashy about Lynken. He is going to run hard and play hard. He is one of the best players in double-A. He's proven that over his career. He stepped up tonight."Joy's ability to make plays in crucial situations was evident. On plays where the defense knew he was getting the ball, he found a way to gain yards. His determination and leadership were crucial in leading the Yellowjackets to victory.

Kusic's Strong Performance

Wheeling Central's sophomore quarterback Nico Kusic also had a strong game. He connected 16 of his first 19 pass attempts for 126 yards and two touchdowns. His 5 - yard touchdown pass to Max Olejasz opened the scoring at the 6:07 mark of the first quarter, and his 6 - yard touchdown pass to Joey Hall tied the game at 14 - 14 with 4:33 remaining in the third quarter. Kusic also led the Knights in rushing with 72 yards on 16 carries.However, in the final 16 ½ minutes, Williamstown managed to keep Kusic in check, allowing just one completion. This shift in the game showed the Yellowjackets' ability to adapt and make crucial defensive plays.

Key Plays and Subtle Moves

Several key plays and subtle moves made the difference in the game. Jackson Fulton's kickoff return just over midfield after Wheeling Central's touchdown gave Williamstown a spark. His performance as a defensive back also showed his versatility.Senior running back Rex Anderson's decision to stay in the game as a lead blocker despite injuring his left shoulder was a testament to his fighting spirit. Beck praised Anderson's effort, saying, "Wasn't at a 100% by any stretch of the imagination but finished the game. Rex is a fighter. The senior class are fighters. He wanted to be involved tonight more than we wanted to let him be in there at the end. We were kind of picking and choosing our spots with Rex. Phenomenal, gutsy effort by Rex."These small but significant plays added up to Williamstown's victory.

Defense and Special Teams

Williamstown's defense played a crucial role in the game. They held Wheeling Central to just one touchdown in the second half and forced several turnovers. On the special teams front, Fulton's kickoff return set the tone for the team's comeback.The coaching staff's decision to go heavy with linemen and play keepaway was a strategic move that paid off. They were able to control the tempo of the game and limit Wheeling Central's explosive offense.In conclusion, Williamstown's victory was a result of the team's resilience, individual performances, and strategic play. The Yellowjackets will now look forward to their next challenge as they continue their quest for a state championship.