ST. CLOUD — Parker Samarzia galloped into the end zone and for a moment, it appeared as if Moose Lake/Willow River was right back in the game.

The senior running back’s touchdown trimmed Eden Valley-Watkins’ lead to just two scores, 30-14, with under four minutes to play in Thursday’s Class AA state football quarterfinal.

Dave Louzek’s Rebels recovered the ensuing onside kick before turning it over on downs just six plays later, which sealed Eden Valley-Watkins’ 30-14 win and its third trip to the state semifinals in the last four years.

Eden Valley-Watkins largely controlled the game from the opening kick. On the Eagles’ second possession, they put together a seven-play drive that spanned 43 yards and culminated in senior quarterback Blake Glenz’s 1-yard rushing touchdown.

The Eagles

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