Three Desert Vista turnovers in the second half proved to be costly as Hamilton rolls over the defending state champions 28 – 14.
The Hamilton defense forced a fumble on Desert Vista’s second half opening drive which led to a 13-yard touchdown run by Elijah Williams.
On the Thunder’s next possession, defensive standout Cole Luke intercepted Matt Young. AJ Thigpen capitalized on the Thunder’s mistake and threw a 19-yard touchdown pass to Israel Simpson, extending Hamilton’s lead to 28-7.
Hamilton dominated the game early, jumping out to a 14 – 0 lead. Their first score coming off a blocked punt that resulted in a touchdown by Luke Parrish in the first quarter.
Late first-half, Hamilton looked to extend their lead but could not convert on 4th down in the redzone. The ensuing drive, Desert Vista marched down the field and scored on a 39-yd pass from Matt Young to Kaleb Germinaro. That cut the lead to 14 – 7 going into the half.
However the Thunder quickly lost their offensive momentum with the disastrous start to the second-half.
The Huskies next opponent is second-seeded Mesa Desert Ridge in the semifinals
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