TriStateFootball.com

Defense shines as Elder downs Lakota East

MASON, Ohio – Defense remains the name of the game for Elder who has given up just 23 points during its current four game winning streak. Friday night the Panthers defense stuffed Lakota East at the line of scrimmage and forced four turnovers. They did not allow the Thunderhawks offense to get into the end zone while holding them to just 3-13 on third and fourth down conversion attempts. The lone score for Lakota East was on a pick six. The victory puts Elder into the regional finals for the first time since 2009 when thy beat Anderson for the crown.

Elder junior Matt Luebbe was called into action at quarterback because of an injury to starter Michael Bittner. Luebbe amassed 258 yards of total offense (160 rush, 98 pass) and accounted for three touchdowns (two rush, one pass). He set new career highs on the ground and through the air.

Receiver Kyle Trischler became Elder’s all-time leader in receiving yards with 2,168, passing Panthers great Bill Poland (2,150). He finished the night with three receptions for 32 yards and a touchdown. Trishcler also holds the school record for career receptions with 193. The senior is four catches (67) away from setting the single season record for receptions.

The four takeaways by Elder gives them 14 in its last four outings. They have a +8 turnover margin in that span.

SCORING BY QUARTERS
Lakota East 0-0-6-0-6
Elder 7-14-7-6-34

SCORING PLAYS
E: Luebbe 6 run (Harmeyer kick)
E: Catania 1 run (Harmeyer kick)
E: Trischler 13 pass from Luebbe (Harmeyer kick)
L: Howard 35 interception return (kick failed)
E: Luebbe 2 run (Harmeyer kick)
E: Bischoff 70 interception return (run failed)

RECORDS: Lakota East (7-5); Elder (8-4)
UP NEXT: Elder will face #1 Colerain (12-0) back at Atrium Stadium, Dwire Field (Mason HS) next Friday night.

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