The Ripon High Girls’ Flag Football team earned a hard-fought 37-20 win against Hughson on Wednesday nigh, using steady offense and timely defense to grab the advantage in the late going.

Hughson came out quickly, holding the score close through the first and second quarter with quick short passes and solid running game. Ripon’s offense answered with a mix of easy screen plays and quick slants, which allowed them to remain in striking discance during halftime.

The momentum shifted in the third quarter when Sophomore, Mia Hendryx changed the game with an interception, reading the eyes of the quarterback and stepping in front of the pass. Her takeaway stopped a promising Highson drive and gave Ripon’s offense the spark it needed to regain control in the game.

Ripon’s defense tightened from there, cutting off Hughson’s big plays, while offense steadily added points to widen the lead and secure the victory.

When asked how they accomplished this win Hendryx explained, “I feel like we collaborated really well, allowing us to really become a team. We just don’t really let each other get down, simply tell each other it’ll be okay and to keep pushing. I feel like that helps us stay confident and finish strong.”

With the 37-20 win, Ripon gets its record better and demonstrates an ability to close out strong against even a difficult opponent. The team heads further into the season with momentum and confidence.