Tarpons knock out Bulldogs 27-7
PUNTA GORDA – Charlotte overcame its own mistakes and a valiant effort by the Ida Baker Bulldogs to win 27-7 in the Region 3-4A playoffs Friday night.
The Tarpons were heavy favorites, but the Bulldogs battled them for all four quarters.
“Baker played with passion and heart tonight.” said Charlotte coach Binky Waldrop.
“We knew we had to be near-perfect to pull this one off,” said Baker coach Brian Conn. “We had a great senior group, but they were playing both ways, and were worn down by the fourth quarter.”
Conn thought back to those seniors who started out as freshmen and went winless in their first season.
“This team has a lot to be proud of. We went 8-2 in the regular season, and are the first team from our school to make the playoffs.” Conn said.
Charlotte’s first score came on a 14-yard run by Dee Shine. A second time the Tarpons got deep into Bulldog territory, but could not punch it in. Kicker Chase Meyers missed a 26-yard field goal. Finally, with 1:31 to play in the half, the Tarpons scored on a 24-yard pass from Kyle Midgett to Alex Mut for a 14-0 halftime lead.
The Bulldogs started at their own 49 to open the second half. After three first downs, Sean Francis dumped a pass in the left flat to Andrew Haynes, who found his way to the end zone. That 13-play drive chewed up almost seven minutes of the third quarter, and brought the Bulldogs within 14-7.
Charlotte responded with a score by Nick Stephenson from 14 yards out.
Baker concluded its season at 8-3. Charlotte continues on in the playoffs, heading to Cape Coral next Friday.
Baker 0 0 7 0 – 7
Charlotte 0 14 7 6 – 27
Second Quarter
C – Dee Shine 14 run (Chase Meyers kick)
C – Alex Mut 24 pass from Kyle Midgett (Meyers kick)
Third Quarter
IB – Andrew Haynes 17 pass from Sean Francis (Cody Kluesner kick)
C – Nick Stephenson 14 run (Meyers kick)
Fourth Quarter
C – Mike Bellamy 7 run (kick failed)