Pleasant Grove headed back to “The Star” in Frisco.
The Hawks will play in the Class 4A Division II State Semi-final game Friday night against the Iowa Park Hawks. Yes, it will be a match up of Hawks battling for the right to play in the State Championship game the following weekend at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. The Pleasant Grove Hawks of course played at “Jerry’s World” last December beating West-Orange Stark in the 2017 title game.
Pleasant Grove is headed back to “The Star”, after a thrilling 44-41 victory over district rival Pittsburgh last Friday night. Much like the regular season tilt, the Hawks found themselves behind 14-0 early to the Pirates. PG stormed back to take a 21-14 halftime advantage.
Unlike the regular season game where the Hawks poured it on in the second half to win easily 45-20, this game stayed close to the very end.
Bruce Garrett ran wild, scoring three touchdowns and rushing for over 234 yards to pace the Hawks. Tyler Kelly had several key interceptions, and Ben Harmon behind his offensive line willed his team to victory again.
Pleasant Grove Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Josh Gibson was thrilled with the outcome. Gibson said, “It was a great victory. Only the second time in school history to advance to the semi-finals.” Gibson added he was very proud of how his kids played.
The PG coach also had praise for Garrett’s big effort. “Bruce is an elite player. He’s had many special nights, but this past Friday was the best game in his career.” Gibson felt like his runner but the team on his back, and continually made plays even when Pittsburgh knew he was going to get the football.
This week’s opponent is Iowa Park. Both Hawk teams have won eight games in a row. Gibson says Iowa Park is a very good team. They are disciplined, tough, play hard, and are dangerous. Iowa Park came back late to beat Glen Rose last week.
The Pleasant Grove Hawks love playing at “The Star”. They have played a lot of playoff games there in the last few years. Gibson says, “It’s the best venue for a high school game because you get the professional venue that doesn’t swallow you up.” He says his team is excited to go back again this week.
Gibson says,”PG fans are the best.” He says they are hoping for another great turnout and believe it will happen.
A special bonus for Pleasant Grove fans attending the game will be the Christmas Spectacular going on outside the stadium. Starting at 6pm there will be Christmas performances, including the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders, and more. Santa will be there too. Former Dallas Cowboy, Jason Witten will the light the tree.
For more information on “The Star” visit their website.
Christmastime and Pleasant Grove football is a great combination.
GO HAWKS!!!
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