BREAKING: Poquoson Islanders delivered a stunning performance in the Class 2 Region A semifinals, crushing Southampton 42-6 on July 14, 2023. The Islanders, ranked No. 2, showcased their powerful Wing-T rushing attack, amassing an impressive 429 rushing yards without a single pass attempt during the game.
The victory propels Poquoson (11-1) into a highly anticipated matchup against No. 1 Armstrong (12-0), who edged past No. 4 Thomas Jefferson with a score of 20-13 in the other semifinal. This clash will take place on Armstrong’s home turf in Richmond, heightening the stakes as Poquoson aims for its fourth consecutive regional title.
Despite Southampton’s (7-5) notable quarterback Zayden Pope, who has thrown for over 2,000 yards this season, the Islanders’ defense proved impenetrable. Initially, it seemed Southampton might pose a challenge as Pope led an early drive to the Poquoson 15-yard line, completing five passes for 40 yards. However, the Islanders’ defense held firm, taking over on downs.
Poquoson quickly established dominance, with Austin Conley sprinting 39 yards on the first drive to score, making it 7-0. Following a pivotal interception by Dom Galacgac, the Islanders extended their lead to 14-0 with a 4-yard touchdown run by Cody Little.
The Islanders’ defense, which allowed only 150 total yards—including just 126 passing yards—continued to stifle Southampton. After a fumble recovery at the Southampton 19-yard line, Galacgac rushed for another touchdown, pushing the score to 21-0 with 10:06 left in the first half.
Southampton managed to score when Miguel Bradshaw connected with Qmarai Allen for a 35-yard touchdown on a trick play, narrowing the gap to 21-6. However, the Islanders quickly responded, capitalizing on a Southampton penalty with Galacgac’s 21-yard touchdown run, elevating the score to 28-6 before halftime.
As the second half began, Conley accelerated the momentum with a stunning 62-yard touchdown run, followed by another 5-yard touchdown from Conley shortly after Little’s impressive 42-yard run. These plays solidified a commanding lead of 36 points, leading to a running clock with 7:57 remaining in the third quarter.
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.”
With the Islanders’ dominant showing, they have set their sights on the regional championship. Fans eagerly await the upcoming showdown against Armstrong, as Poquoson looks to continue its winning streak and defend its title.
Stay tuned for more updates as this thrilling postseason unfolds.
