MOORHEAD – The highly anticipated football match between Alexandria and Moorhead lived up to its expectations, with Alexandria claiming a thrilling 48-44 victory on Friday night at Jim Gotta Stadium. This showdown not only decided the Section 8 championship but also secured a spot for Alexandria in the Class 5A state tournament.
Senior quarterback Chase Thompson was instrumental for the Cardinals, connecting with Mason Gorghuber on a stunning 99-yard touchdown pass with just over seven minutes left in the game. This was Thompson’s third touchdown pass of the night, and he also contributed with a 5-yard rushing touchdown. With this key touchdown, Alexandria improved their record to 8-2.
“No lead is ever too safe when we are playing each other,” remarked Alexandria coach Mike Empting after the game. “We found a way to get it done. We’ll take it.” Thompson’s earlier connection with Gorghuber resulted in a 9-yard touchdown just before the third quarter ended.
Moorhead, ranked No. 1, had a strong showing as well, with Taye Reich scoring four touchdowns, including a 1-yard run that gave the Spuds a 44-41 lead before Alexandria surged back. In the final moments, a critical interception by Dane Olson sealed the game for the Cardinals.
This matchup was a rematch from three weeks ago when Moorhead narrowly defeated Alexandria 36-34. Coach Empting acknowledged the fierce rivalry: “Both teams match up well with each other and can strike quickly from anywhere on the field.”
In other notable high school games, Mounds View edged Prior Lake 28-27 after stopping a late two-point conversion attempt. Elk River defeated Andover 59-28 to earn their state tournament bid, while Minneota came from behind to beat BOLD 34-28, thanks to a standout performance from Ryan Meagher.
The excitement of high school football continues as teams prepare for their next matches. Fans eagerly await more thrilling plays and intense competitions in the weeks to come.
