Oskaloosa Triumphs in Hard-Fought Battle Against Des Moines Hoover
The Oskaloosa Indians delivered a gritty and determined performance on September 6, 2024, overcoming the Des Moines Hoover Huskies 27-14 in front of an energetic home crowd. The Indians’ mix of solid defense and clutch plays on offense secured the victory, as they improved their season record with a well-earned win.
First Half: Early Tension and Back-and-Forth Action
Oskaloosa wasted no time establishing their presence, with Maddux Ashman returning the opening kickoff to the OHS 37. The Indians quickly moved down the field on the legs of AJ Walker and the arm of quarterback Kayne Boender. A Boender-to-Ashman 45-yard pass set up Walker for a 5-yard touchdown run, putting Oskaloosa up 7-0.
However, Hoover responded immediately with a stunning 87-yard kickoff return touchdown by Gabe Polich, tying the game at 7-7.
The back-and-forth battle continued in the second quarter, with Oskaloosa taking advantage of a short field. Boender found Ashman again, this time for a 23-yard touchdown pass, giving the Indians a 14-7 lead.
Despite strong runs by Hoover’s DaMarion Yin and Diyon Berry, Oskaloosa’s defense, led by Lukas Toubekis and Trey Parks, held firm.
Second Half: Big Plays Lead the Way
The second half began explosively, with Hoover’s Diyon Berry breaking through for a 70-yard touchdown run just 21 seconds into the third quarter, tying the game at 14-14. But Oskaloosa responded swiftly. With Hoover backed up near their own end zone, the Indians’ defense forced a fumble, recovered by Parker Jordan for a touchdown, putting Oskaloosa back on top 21-14.
Oskaloosa’s defense continued to shine, and a crucial sack by Caden Johnson halted a Hoover drive. The Indians took advantage, marching down the field with key runs by AJ Walker and Jalin Woodard. The drive culminated in a 24-yard touchdown pass from Merek Padgett to Tyler Edgar, extending the lead to 27-14.
A Defense that Stood Tall
Hoover struggled to generate any further offense, with Oskaloosa’s defensive line consistently applying pressure. Dom Piersel and Brock Beerbower both made key tackles, and the Indians’ secondary, anchored by Grady Kool and Maddux Ashman, kept Hoover’s passing game in check.
As the clock wound down, Oskaloosa’s control over the game was evident. The Indians ran out the remaining time with strong runs by Walker, securing the 27-14 victory.
Conclusion
Oskaloosa’s balanced attack and disciplined defense made the difference in this exciting matchup. The Indians now look to carry their momentum forward as they prepare for their next game.
