In a fiercely contested firstround playoff game, the Henryetta Knights’ football season came to a close with a 26-12 loss to the Salina Wildcats on November 15, 2024. Despite a valiant effort, the Knights struggled to maintain momentum against a dominant Salina squad, ending their postseason hopes.

— First-Half Fireworks The Wildcats struck first late in the first quarter when Jeremy Hooker electrified the field with a 78-yard punt return touchdown, giving Salina an early 6-0 lead. Henryetta responded in the second quarter with an 82-yard interception return by Gavin Williams, showcasing his defensive prowess. However, both teams faced challenges convert- ing extra points, leaving the score tied at 6-6.

Salina reclaimed the lead shortly after, as quarterback Eli Swarer connected with Cody Wheeler on a four-yard touchdown pass. Henryetta’s offense answered with a well-executed 22-yard touchdown pass from Brady Norman to William Perez, tying the game 12-12 at halftime.

The second half belonged to Salina, with Swarer leading his team to back-to-back scoring drives. A 45-yard touchdown pass to Jescee Sanders and a six-yard touchdown to Hooker in the third and fourth quarters, respectively, put the Wildcats firmly ahead. Salina’s Caleb Wheeler added the extra points to extend the lead to 26-12.

Henryetta’s offense had difficulty sustaining drives against Salina’s disciplined defense. The Knights managed only six first downs compared to Salina’s 22 and were unable to convert any third- or fourthdown opportunities. While Nathan White led Henryetta’s rushing efforts with 54 yards on five carries, and Perez added 51 yards on nine attempts, Salina’s defense stifled the Knights’ attempts to gain momentum.

Quarterback Brady Norman completed four of nine passes for 38 yards, including his touchdown to Perez. The Knights finished with 161 yards of total offense compared to Salina’s 356, reflecting the Wildcats’ ability to control the game on both sides of the ball.

— Defensive Highlights

Despite the loss, Henryetta’s defense had its moments. Williams’ interception return for a touchdown was a standout play, and the team forced three interceptions from Swarer. However, Salina’s balanced attack and clock management proved too much to overcome, as they dominated time of possession, holding the ball for over 33 minutes.

— End of the Road

While the loss marks the end of the season for the Knights, who finish the season at 8-3, the team showed determination and flashes of brilliance throughout the game. Head coach Weston McGill and his staff will undoubtedly use this playoff experience to build on for the next season.

As the Salina Wildcats advance deeper into the postseason, the Henryetta Knights will regroup and prepare to come back stronger next year.