LONDON — A long time coming.
North Laurel finally got over a district obstacle that had been difficult to accomplish for 13 years.
The Jaguars fought back from a seven-point deficit to defeat Pulaski County for the first time since August 21, 2009, snapping an 11-game losing skid to the Maroons with a hard-earned 28-14 victory.
The win also moved the Jaguars (4-3, 2-1) one step closer to hosting a home playoff game. North Laurel can accomplish the feat with a win at Harlan County in two weeks.
Pulaski County falls to 2-6 with the loss, and 1-1 in district play.
“Really big win because of how much we respect Pulaski County,” North Laurel coach Jason Chappell said. “Coach Hines and his staff and team are always a tough team to beat.
“Obviously, there are postseason implications that could come into play if we take care of the things we need to going forward,” he added. “Our kids battled for 48 minutes tonight. We were very physical and really disciplined on both sides of the ball. Our offensive line played their best game of the year and Hunter Morgan was tremendous tonight at quarterback.”
The Maroons jumped out to a 7-0 lead after a touchdown reception by Ryan Anderson at the 7:54 mark of the first quarter.
Pulaski County failed to take advantage of a North Laurel turnover with 4:24 remaining in the first quarter, and once again after stopping the ajaguars on fourth and four inside the Maroons’ 10-yard line.
Hunter Morgan’s touchdown pass to Jack Chappell with 5:14 remaining in the first half tied the game at seven apiece.
A minute later, Cooper Robinson intercepted a pass attempt and raced downfield and recorded a pick six to give North Laurel a 14-7 edge.
The Jaguars held the slim seven-point advantage until one minute remaining in the third quarter when Ethan Gregory found paydirt after breaking through the offensive line.
Kasen Brock’s rushing touchdown with 9:47 remaining cut the Maroons’ deficit to, 21-14, but Morgan’s touchdown pass to Cole Messer with 6:30 remaining in the fourth quarter sealed the win for North Laurel.
The Jaguars will travel to Taylor County Friday while Pulaski County will travel to play Harlan County.
