Sand Springs Holds Off Claremore

Originally Published: Oct 24, 2009 12:10 AM CDT

Curt Hill
Oklahoma Sports Staff Writer

SAND SPRINGS, Oklahoma — In a season where Sand Springs expected to make the postseason in 6A-3, the Sandites found themselves fighting for their playoff lives in their Week Eight contestwith Claremore. Johnny Deaton, who made his first start since Week One, kept those hopes alive by leading the Sandites to a 28-24 come-from-behind victory over the Zebras.

The Sandites looked like they were on their way to a touchdown on their first drive as they drove into Claremore territory. However, on a 4th-and-short, the Zebra defense stopped Deaton inches short of a first down. Claremore took over and cashed in a few plays later when Gavin Little hooked up with Jordan Basks on a 60-yard touchdown pass. The score gave the Zebras a 7-0 lead.

The Zebra defense kept the pressure on during the next Sand Springs drive and forced a punt. Claremore held the Sandites in check for the rest of the half and went into the intermission with a 14-7 lead.

Deaton and Sand Springs came out determined in the second half, though, and outscored the Zebras 21-10. The win ends Sand Springs’ three-game losing streak and it is the first victory for the Sandites with Deaton under center.

Sand Springs (4-4, 2-3) and Claremore (4-4, 2-3) are now tied for the fourth spot in District 6A-3. However, if both teams finish with the same district record, the Sandites hold the tiebreaker with their win over the Zebras.

Claremore will try to rebound when Broken Arrow comes to town next week. Sand Springs will look to continue its winning ways at Sapulpa.