Neuqua Valley Triumphs with Strong Defense, Secures 10th Win

The Neuqua Valley Wildcats secured a thrilling 21-13 victory over the Waubonsie Valley Warriors on September 1, 2023, marking their tenth consecutive win in this rivalry matchup. With a strong defensive performance in the final moments, Neuqua Valley held off a late charge from Waubonsie Valley, ensuring their unbeaten streak continued.

As the clock neared the end of the fourth quarter, Neuqua Valley led comfortably at 21-6. However, a touchdown from Waubonsie Valley coupled with a controversial roughing the passer penalty gave the Warriors a chance to close the gap. With only 0.2 seconds left and the ball positioned 20 yards from the end zone, the Wildcats’ defense stepped up. Senior defensive end Luke Hammond pressured the quarterback, forcing an incomplete pass and clinching the win for Neuqua Valley.

Coach Bill Ellinghaus praised his team’s resilience. “They don’t point fingers; they just go out there and do their jobs,” he stated. “They’re always trying to figure out what’s best for each other, and because of that, I think this team has the ability to win a lot of football games.”

The Wildcats’ ground game was led by senior running back Andy Barkley, who carried the ball 24 times for an impressive 194 yards and two touchdowns. His performance was pivotal in establishing Neuqua Valley’s early lead. In the first quarter, following an interception by junior linebacker and running back Pierce Stevens, Barkley showcased his speed and agility with a 36-yard run, setting up the opening touchdown.

Stevens, who played dual roles as both a middle linebacker and a bruiser back, contributed significantly to the team’s energy. “I love just being the source of energy for our team,” Stevens remarked, highlighting the importance of teamwork in their success.

In a critical moment during the fourth quarter, with the lead reduced to a single score, Barkley broke free for a 65-yard touchdown run, extending Neuqua’s advantage. “I couldn’t have done it without my guys,” Barkley said, emphasizing the importance of the team’s preparation. “We practiced all summer, we practiced all week. We just really came together and good things happen when you come together.”

On the opposing sideline, Waubonsie Valley coach Adam Pucylowski acknowledged his team’s effort, despite the loss. “Man, they compete and they care about each other,” he noted. “That’s really what you’re looking for, a cohesive unit that’s going to work together. We just got to start out a little bit better than we did today.”

Waubonsie Valley struggled early in the game, with two first-quarter interceptions leading to a quick 14-0 deficit. Senior quarterback Colin Ford, who stands at 6-foot-4 and has an offer from Wyoming, managed to throw for one touchdown but faced challenges against Neuqua’s formidable defense. He displayed athleticism and physicality, not shying away from contact, but ultimately, the Warriors could not recover from their early mistakes.

Coach Ellinghaus reflected on the game, stating, “We had some good plays and some bad plays, but the fact of the matter is our kids stick together. That’s what I’m proud of them for.” The victory not only reinforces Neuqua Valley’s dominance in the rivalry but also showcases the team’s potential as they progress through the season.