A stifling defensive performance and a potent ground attack propelled Highlands to a 24-7 victory over Derry Area in the first round of the WPIAL Class 3A football playoffs Friday night. The Golden Rams advance to face No.3 Central Valley next week.highlands’ win secures a quarterfinal berth and continues their postseason journey, while ending Derry’s season. The Rams’ ability to limit Derry’s offensive opportunities and capitalize on their own rushing success proved decisive.Highlands Head Coach Steve Bonislawski acknowledged areas for enhancement despite the win, emphasizing the need for sharper execution as the playoffs progress.
The Highlands defense set the tone early, highlighted by an interception from Derry linebacker Max Dougherty on a second-down play during the Rams’ second drive, halting a promising advance from their own 18-yard line. Later, a fumble forced by the Rams and recovered by Trojans linebacker Kaden Weiers at the Derry 33-yard line further frustrated the Derry offense. A missed 30-yard field goal by highlands in the third quarter offered a brief reprieve for Derry, but the Rams’ overall defensive pressure remained consistent.
Complementing the defense was a strong rushing attack. Quarterback Jamarkus Prager contributed 18 and 10-yard runs,while Owen-Cratsenberg broke off gains of 13 and 40 yards. wide receiver Wright finished with three receptions for 51 yards. However, an errant pass from Sacco, impacted by the wind, was intercepted by Rams safety christian Pearson in the end zone.
“We left a lot of points on the field, not happy about that,” Bonislawski said. “In the playoffs, it doesn’t matter how much you win by, doesn’t have to be pretty. We need to sharpen up for next week and we certainly know that.”
highlands will travel to Central Valley (6-4), the Western Hills Conference runner-up, for their next playoff contest. Bonislawski stressed the importance of readiness and focused execution. “We’re going to talk about execution and being prepared,” he stated.”The work is done during the week and we’re going to prepare as best we can, knowing our assignments and give a full effort.”
