G.W. Graham advances in playoffs behind gutsy, amazing 48-47 overtime win vs. South Delta

The Grizzlies actually trailed 35-33 with less than four minutes to go in the game. But G.W. saved its best for last by driving the length of the field scoring to make it 39-35. With a successful 2-point conversion, the Grizzlied led 41-35 with only a minute left.

However, the Sun Devils returned the favour and drove down the field and scored to make it 41-41. South Delta elected to kick a PAT, but Graham defender Tyson Orregaard blocked the PAT to send the game into overtime.

In overtime, the Grizzlies scored on their first possession and with a successful PAT, went up 48-41. South Delta countered with its own touchdown to trim the Grizzlies’ lead to 48-47. Instead of opting for a safe PAT attempt and tie the game, the Sun Devils elected to go for a 2-point convert to win the game.

In heroic fashion and with a shot at provincials on the line, G.W. linebacker Aiden Parks tipped the South Delta pass, enabling strong safety Josh Seo to intercept the potentially game-winning toss.

“It was a dig deep, character win for these guys, making the big plays when it mattered against a really great team,” G.W. Graham head coach Luke Acheson pointed out. “It’s been a while since we were tested like that, and it’s really going to help us be better for next week.”

Maleky Colgiu carried the ball 25 times for 204 yards and 2 TDs for the Grizzlies, while Yapo Conteh had 12 carries for 94 yards and 3 TDs. Riley Ashley and Josh Seo led the Grizzlies defense with 7 tackles each.

The Grizzlies advance to the provincial semifinals this Saturday, November 26 in B.C. Place against the St. Thomas More Knights. G.W. Graham previously beat STM 38-13 in an exhibition game back in September at home.

by Mike Vanden Bosch

G.W. Graham advances in playoffs behind gutsy, amazing 48-47 overtime win vs. South Delta

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