CM Cougars stop the R-T Raiders
The match-up between the top ranked Richardton-Taylor Raiders and the Central McLean Cougars was touted as the game of the year in Region 6. The Raiders took control in the first quarter and showed why they were rated one of the top teams in the region. The Raiders took possession first and ran the ball up the middle on the first play of the game. The Cougars, however, would make some big tackles. The Raiders, in a fourth and ten situation, after a busted pass play by the Cougar defense, went for the first down and completed a 25-yard pass reception. That play, giving Richardton-Taylor a fresh set of downs, led to a touchdown run up the middle. The Raiders established a 6-0 lead after an unsuccessful two-point conversion. Grant Singer, a senior, returned the kickoff and in the first offensive series the Cougars went three and out. On the punt and a mishandled snap, the Raiders took advantage of great field position and added six more points on a rushing touch down. With 1:49 remaining in the first quarter the Raiders took the lead 14-0. The Cougars picked up the offensive tempo in the following minutes, when Singer took advantage of his big line and ran for a 17-yard pickup. On third and 10, Singer headed to the left side of the line for 16 yards to keep the drive alive. Senior back Sam Hultberg contributed some yards as the first quarter ended with the score 14-0 in favor of the Raiders.
