Dreadnaughts Lasso the Cowboys, 15-8.

Under the lights of Bryant Stadium, the Lakeland Dreadnaughts unleashed a masterclass in ball control and defensive grit to subdue the Tampa Gaither Cowboys in the FHSAA Class 5A, Region 2 Semifinals.

Lakeland’s first offensive drive may have been historic. From the opening kickoff, Lakeland seized momentum, orchestrating a marathon drive that devoured nearly 14 minutes of clock. The Dreadnaughts marched 82 yards over 21 plays, consuming 13:49 seconds, resulting in a touchdown and an 8-0 lead.

Lakeland’s defense was impenetrable, allowing Tampa Gaither just six plays for a staggering -5 yards in the first half. The Dreadnaughts threatened to widen the gap before halftime, but after a missed field goal and a penalty, they were denied at the goal line.

Tampa Gaither’s spark came in the second half, when quarterback Joshua Balloon (QB) electrified the crowd with a trio of daring runs — culminating in a 40-yard dash straight up the middle for a touchdown. The Cowboys converted the two-point conversion to tie the game at 8-8.

Lakeland’s offense, though pedestrian, proved sufficient to secure the victory. Kelin Hendrix (QB) delivered a precise aerial attack, connecting on 7 of 11 passes for 90 yards, including a 26-yard strike to Joseph Howard (QB). Hendrix also powered through for 66 rushing yards on 12 carries. Ahnarri Cooper (RB) bulldozed for 88 yards on 12 rushes, including the clinching 26-yard touchdown. The Dreadnaughts accumulated 182 yards on 34 carries during the contest.

The drama peaked in the final moments. Defensive back C.J. Kresser (DB) snatched a game-sealing interception in the end zone, and though a 100-yard return was nullified by penalties, Lakeland’s 15-8 triumph in the Class 5A, Region 2 Semifinals was secure.

Lakeland heads to Frank Lough Field to battle the undefeated Orlando Edgewater Eagles in the FHSAA Class 5A, Region 2 Finals on Friday, November 28th at 7:30 PM. The Eagles are undefeated, with a 12-0 record, having defeated Tampa Bay Tech, 21-0, last Friday.