PIERRE – Not since 2016 have the Pierre Governors had to play a road playoff game in football, but they will this Friday in an 11AA semifinal against Yankton at Crane-Youngworth Field. Pierre is 7-2 after their thrilling fourth-quarter comeback led to a 34-27 win last Thursday over Mitchell in the quarterfinal round. Yankton is 9-1. Eight weeks ago, the Bucks beat the Governors in Yankton to stop Pierre’s 18-game winning streak.
Governor Head Coach Steve Steele recounted what went well and not quite so well against Mitchell.
Lincoln Kienholz threw three fourth-quarter touchdowns in that game, including the game-winner with just under three minutes remaining. Steele said that Kienholz was heroic.
Steele said that Mitchell was a much better team than indicated by their sixth seed and 3-7 record.
Steele was asked how much playing on the road matters.
Steele said that Yankton has plenty of depth and talent.
Steele said that the Governors know that they must execute well.
Steele senses fun, not pressure, within the Pierre team.
The winner of Friday’s game will advance to the 11AA championship game at the Dakota Dome in Vermillion on Friday, November 13 at 7:00 PM. This Friday’s game can be heard on the Official Voice of the Pierre Governors, River 92.7, starting at 6:30 with Brian Oakland. Live and archived video will be available at the River 92.7 page at drgnews.com.
For those planning to attend Friday’s game, tickets are limited and safety measures will be in place.
Comments