WEST UNION, W.Va. — A sterling defensive effort and another multi-score performance from Hunter America lifted Doddridge County to a spot in the Class A state championship game. The top-seeded Bulldogs defeated Williamstown 27-3 at Cline Stansberry Stadium, giving their Doddridge their first appearance in a state final since 1978.
“We realize how storied their program is,” said Doddridge County head coach Bobby Burnside. “Coach (Terry) Smith has one of the best winning percentages in the state. We knew they were going to play real hard. We had to play hard for four quarters and weather the storm.”
America scored three touchdowns and Noah Bumgardner added another as the Bulldogs scored 27 unanswered points after a Josh Erb field goal gave Williamstown (10-3) an early lead.
“We have made a living this season forcing the opponent to turn the ball over,” Burnside said. “That’s what we did the rest of the game.”
Doddridge County (13-0) will face No. 10 seed and two-time defending state champion Wheeling Central Catholic (9-4) in the Class A state championship game on December 7th.
“It is going to be a very challenging task,” Burnside said. “We’re going to have to have a good week of practice and preparation. We are going to have to play harder than we have all season long.”
(Photos and video by Teran Malone)