One of the early highlights of the game was the Elks' great defense. Springboro took the opening kickoff and showed their determination by driving to midfield. However, the Elks' defense stood tall, forcing Springboro to punt. This defensive stand set the tone for the game.
The game's momentum took a turn when Ross Coppock intercepted a Springboro pass with just four minutes remaining in the first quarter. Coppock's interception placed the Elks in excellent field position, at the Boro 25-yard line. Despite a valiant effort, the Elks were stopped on fourth down at the Panther 2-yard line, denying them an early lead.
As the game progressed into the second quarter, both teams fought for control. Springboro attempted a 37-yard field goal, but the kick fell short, keeping the scoreboard untouched. The Elk offense struggled to find its rhythm, but fortune favored them as Sam Bomberry recovered a Springboro fumble at the Boro 45-yard line with 2:27 left in the half. Seizing the opportunity, the Elks' offense put together their sole scoring drive of the night. Drake Wells connected with Bryce Cowgill for a 5-yard touchdown pass, giving the Elks a 7-0 lead with just 15 seconds left in the first half.
Entering the second half, the Elks' offense faced difficulties maintaining their momentum. However, the defense and Leland Gantz picked up their teammates. Seth Alejandrino made an impactful interception, returning the ball 40 yards to the Boro 12-yard line. Despite penalties pushing the Elks back, Leland Gantz showcased his leg, nailing a 48-yard field goal that extended the Elks' lead to 10-0 with 7:34 left in the third quarter.
The game's intensity escalated as both teams exchanged punts, with the Elks maintaining their 10-0 lead entering the fourth quarter. Reggie Powers continued the trend of crucial interceptions, picking off a Boro pass at the Springboro 27-yard line with over 11 minutes left to play. Though penalties hindered the Elks' offensive progress, Gantz added another field goal, this time from 48 yards, extending the lead to 13-0 with 10:05 remaining.
With 8:32 on the clock, the Elks' defense forced Springboro to punt once again, and the Elks took possession at their own 45-yard line. The offense managed to move the ball to the Boro 18-yard line, where Gantz executed a 35-yard field goal, increasing the Elks' lead to 16-0 with 3:45 left in the game.
Springboro, determined to make a late comeback, executed an impressive 80-yard drive, scoring their only touchdown with just 15 seconds to spare. However, their two-point conversion attempt was unsuccessful. The Elks held on for a well-deserved 16-6 victory, demonstrating their resilience and teamwork.
The Elks improved their overall record to 5-1 and maintained a perfect 3-0 record in the Greater Western Ohio Conference (GWOC), putting them in a tie for first place.
The next game for the Elks is scheduled for Friday, September 29th, at 7 pm at Centerville Stadium, where they will face Beavercreek. This special night will be dedicated to PVN/PVS as they honor their Little Elks. Tickets for the game are available only online at
