The Superior Express -

It was a typical Lawrence-Nelson-Blue Hill love fest for the Homecoming game at Lawrence Friday. When time expired, the Bobcats had eked out a 54-52 win over long-time rival Lawrence-Nelson in a game that was contested until time expired.

The Raiders dominated both sides of the ball in the first quarter, taking a 16-0 lead. The Bobcats offense awoke in the second quarter as they scored 16 points. Lawrence-Nelson added a score to lead 22-16 at the half.

The stage was set for a battle royal second half and neither team disappointed. Each team scored twice in the third quarter. The Raiders picked up a two-point edge with extra point conversions. They put up 16 points while the Bobcats added 14.

It was all on the line in the 12 minutes of play. The Raiders clung to a 38-30 lead and were looking to add another win. The Bobcats refused to play dead. They scored 24 points, converting all of their two-point conversions on their three touchdowns. The Raiders added two points with kicks after their two touchdowns.

The outcome of the game came down to the final minute of play. Blue Hill used it to score the go ahead touchdown. The Raiders ran out of time and were handed their second loss of the season, both by two points. The loss left the Raiders with a 2-2 record halfway through the season.

Krayton Kucerea completed 22 of his 31 pass attempts for 243 yards and two touchdowns.

Erik Wheeland hauled in 10 receptions for 120 yards and two touchdowns. He also was successful with a two-point conversion reception from Kucera. Tyson Kotinek grabbed seven passes for 94 yards. Conner Janda snagged two passes for 13 yards.

Kucera covered 181 yards of Nuckolls county real estate with his 26 carries. Four touchdowns and four two-point conversions came as a result of his efforts. Toby Kotinek Picked up 21 yards on five carries. He also scored a touchdown. Janda netted a yard with his single carry. Bayln Bargen picked up seven yards with his three carries.

Kucera made seven unassisted tackles and assisted with 11 others. Nolan Ostdiek and Janda nailed three solo shots and four assists each. Tyson Kotinek grabbed three solo tackles and added an assist. Wyatt Brockman wrapped up two solo tackles and contributed six assisted tackles. Wheeland landed two solo tackles and four assists. Wyatt Hajny jammed two solo shots and three assists. Clay Williams collected a solo tackles and three assists. Keaton Mazour added a solo tackle and six assists to the defensive effort. Bargen closed out with a solo tackle and two assists. Toby Kotinek wad credited with an assisted tackle.

The Raiders face another tough test, Friday, when they visit Kenesaw for a game with the 4-0 Kenesaw Blue Devils. Kick off is set for 7 p.m.