Semifinal action across the state. The KMAJ-AM sports team traveled two and a half hours south to Frontenac to see the Hayden Wildcats play the Raiders. Hayden tried to settle “unfinished business” by taking care of Frontenac, punching their ticket to the 4A-II State Championship, and looking to avenge last season’s championship defeat.

The Wildcats were tamed on Friday night by the Frontenac Raiders, as Hayden committed five turnovers and scored zero points in the second half in a 37-21 defeat.

Momentum swung in the second half after Hayden quarterback Sampson Huston threw an interception to junior Riley McDaniel. McDaniel took the ball to the end zone, giving Frontenac a 28-21 lead and momentum.

The Raiders weren’t done converting defense into offense as junior Brendan Ishimura forced Huston’s second pick six of the night, this time from 97 yards. Frontenac scored 27 points off five Hayden turnovers.

Huston finished the game 9 of 25 for 208 yards, two touchdowns, and four interceptions. Despite gaining 365 yards of offense and earning 19 first downs, Hayden failed to turn drives into scores due to a bend-but-don’t-break defense from Frontenac.

Jake WIlbert provided the offense for Frontenac. The senior running back had 20 carries for 137 yards and two touchdowns. Wilbert has 21 touchdowns this season. The Raiders gained 242 rushing yards to go along with 73 passing.

Frontenac starting quarterback Peyton Brown got the scoring going with a 4-yard touchdown run in the first quarter. Hayden then responded with 14 straight points on passing touchdowns to Matt Moore and DeShawn Hanika.

Hayden finishes the season with a 7-5 record. Frontenac will face Holcomb in the 4A-II State Championship game in Salina after Holcomb beat Scott City 34-13.

Stats from the Topeka Capital-Journal