UPDATE: Poquoson Islanders delivered an electrifying performance in their Class 2 Region A semifinal against Southampton, crushing them 42-6 on November 10, 2023. The No. 2 Islanders relied solely on their fierce rushing attack, racking up an astounding 429 yards without a single pass attempt, propelling them into a highly anticipated showdown against No. 1 Armstrong in Richmond.
The victory pushes the Islanders’ record to 11-1 and marks their fourth consecutive trip to the region finals. Fans and players alike are buzzing with excitement as Poquoson seeks to secure their fourth consecutive regional title.
The game kicked off at Poquoson Middle School, where Southampton’s hopes rested on the shoulders of their star quarterback, Zayden Pope, who entered the game with 2,013 yards and 19 touchdowns this season. Initial signs suggested a competitive match when Pope led the Indians deep into Islanders territory. However, Poquoson’s defense quickly asserted dominance, halting their progress and setting the stage for what would become a one-sided affair.
On their first possession, Austin Conley showcased his skills, sprinting 39 yards for a touchdown, putting Poquoson ahead 7-0. Following an interception by Dom Galacgac, the Islanders marched 48 yards down the field, culminating in a 4-yard touchdown run by Cody Little, extending their lead to 14-0.
As the first half progressed, Poquoson’s defense continued to stifle Southampton’s offensive efforts, allowing only 150 yards throughout the game. A crucial fumble recovery set up another score, with Galacgac dashing 19 yards to make it 21-0 with just over ten minutes left in the first half.
Southampton finally found some momentum when a trick play resulted in a 35-yard touchdown pass from Miguel Bradshaw to Qmarai Allen, bringing the score to 21-6. However, Poquoson quickly responded, capitalizing on a Southampton penalty to score again, this time with a 21-yard run by Galacgac, making it 28-6 before halftime.
Despite Southampton’s attempts to claw back, they were unable to penetrate Poquoson’s formidable defense, which sacked Pope five times. The Islanders kept the pressure on with Conley running 62 yards for another touchdown early in the third quarter. He later added another score, bringing the lead to an insurmountable 36 points with a running clock, signaling the end of any hope for a Southampton comeback.
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 challenges Southampton posed but expressed confidence in his team’s ability to limit their big plays.
As the Islanders celebrate this commanding victory, all eyes turn to their upcoming clash against Armstrong, where they aim to continue their winning streak. Fans are eagerly awaiting what promises to be an unforgettable matchup on the Wildcats’ home turf.
Stay tuned for more updates as Poquoson seeks to capture another regional title!
