Vandals to host Pahranagat Valley in 1A State semifinal

The Eureka County High School football team scored 44 points before allowing the Wells Leopards to score in Eureka on Friday, Nov. 6. Wells threatened to score on its first drive, but it stalled when the Leopards reached the red zone, turning it over on downs.

Hank Mentaberry immediately responded by running the ball into the Wells’ red zone and then rushing for a six-yard touchdown and two-point conversion. Wells punted on its next possession, and Mentaberry tossed a touchdown and the Vandals converted the two-point attempt yet again.

Another rushing touchdown and two-point conversion made it 24-0 at the end of the first quarter. Mentaberry broke another big run before punching it in to make it 30-0. Then he found Dean Benson for a 30-yard touchdown pass to make it 36-0 before halftime.

Eureka received the second-half kick and immediately scored before allowing its first score on the ensuing kickoff. After a failed onside kick by Wells, the Vandals turned it over on downs. It was the first possession on which Eureka failed to score.

The Vandals went into the fourth quarter leading 44-6, and that’s what it remained as reserves got valuable playing time.

ECHS now has a chance to avenge its only loss of the season—a 34-12 home loss to Pahranagat Valley way back on Aug. 28. The Panthers are also coming off a 66-14 blowout win at home versus Sandy Valley. The two teams will take the field in Eureka on Friday, Nov. 13 at 6 p.m. The winner will go on to the 1A State Championship game at Allegiant Stadium on Friday, Nov. 20 at 9 a.m.