Game one of the Class 4A State Playoffs went to the Newcastle Racers (9-2) Friday night when they beat Elk City (7-4) by a score of 46-21.
The Racers and the Elks were tied at the end of the first quarter, but then Newcastle added 10 while holding Elk City from scoring in the second quarter.
Going into halftime, the Racers led 17-7. Newcastle added another 15 points in the third quarter and 14 points in the fourth quarter for the 46 total points.
Elk City had two touchdowns in each of the third and fourth quarters to total their 21 points.
Newcastle Head Coach Jeff Brickman said the Racers played very physical up front on both sides of the ball. He said several players contributed and no single play stands out as a game changer.
“We did recover a high onside kick that was executed well,” Brickman said.
The Racers had more than 500 yards of total offense, rushing for more than 350 yards. At the same time, the defense forced several Elk City punts and 3-and-outs. Several players were recognized for their p er forma nc e with the Most Valuable Player going to TJ Bradford. Jackson Bergt received the Hammer award, and Chad Craft received the Pancake Stick. Rex Heskew was noted for his play on offense, and Ryan Barker was the standout on defense. The special teams award went to Jalen Lane, and the Practice Player of the Week went to Thomas Barbee.
The Racers travel to eastern Oklahoma Friday night to play in the State Quarter Finals against the Poteau Pirates (11-0). Poteau beat Miami, 41-13, in the first round of the playoffs.
Brickman said Newcastle has never played against Poteau before.
He said, “They look very physical and play extremely hard. It looks to be a great venue and contest.”
