High-Scoring Affair Ends in Heartbreak for Strasburg
STRASBURG, VA – Moral victory, growing pains, or a temporary setback, would all be choice euphemisms to describe Strasburg’s (1-3, 0-0 Bull Run) last-minute loss to Page County (1-2). But the easiest and most truthful way to describe it is simple defeat. The Panthers used a punishing ground game – coupled with a passing attack that the Rams were unable to contain – to pull out 38-35 upset at Ram Stadium.
The game was a fast-paced affair from the start. Neither team found much success on their initial drives, both punting away. However, the ensuing offensive explosion saw a combined 613 total yards and 73 points, while both teams also committed six turnovers.
Page County struck first. On their second possession, sophomore quarterback Wesley Meadows connected with running back T.T. Smelser for a 63-yard touchdown pass.
Strasburg responded with a defensive score. Backed up deep in their own territory, Meadows threw an ill-advised pass that was intercepted by cornerback Randy Gossard, who returned it 15 yards for a touchdown to tie the game at 7-7.
Page County then added 10 unanswered points in the second quarter with a 25-yard field goal and a 71-yard interception return by Josh Turner.
Strasburg needed a spark to overcome the 17-7 halftime deficit. That spark came from senior running back Aaron Barnes. Receiving the kickoff at the 15-yard line, Barnes burst through the line and raced down the sideline for a touchdown.
However, Page County quickly responded with another touchdown pass to Smelser, extending their lead to 24-14.
Two big plays then put Strasburg ahead. A fumble recovery by the Rams at the 5-yard line set up a quarterback sneak for Parker Neal’s first career touchdown.
On their next possession, Barnes broke loose again, this time for a 75-yard touchdown run. Alex Lynch’s two-point conversion gave Strasburg a 35-31 lead.
Page County regained the lead with a short drive capped by a Meadows touchdown pass.
Strasburg then drove 63 yards on the ground, culminating in Barnes’ second rushing touchdown.
However, with just over a minute remaining, Page County faced a fourth-and-10 at the Strasburg 30-yard line. Coach Barry Pangle made the decision to throw the ball. Meadows’ pass across the field was contested, but senior receiver Brandon Comer made a spectacular leaping catch for the game-winning touchdown.