Patriots Run By Spartans, Win District
A common theme for Broad Run students and football players alike in the week leading up to their game against Park View was the phrase, "Park Who?"
But after the Spartans put together a dominant first half en route to a 21-7 halftime advantage, Park View would show them who they were by capitalizing on mistakes and charging back to win the game, 35-21, and more importantly, their second straight Dulles District championship.
The Patriots (9-1 overall, 5-0 district) will play Louisa County (9-1) in the Group AA Division 4 Region II semifinals next week. The Spartans' season ended at 5-5, 3-2.
Broad Run's defense played well in the first half, giving the favored Patriots everything they could handle in a match-up of old rivals.
"There really wasn't much to say at the half," Park View quarterback C.J. Leizear said. "We all knew what was going on. We made a few changes and knew if we truly stepped up we could score."
With a complete change of momentum, the Patriots returned to the field bearing the energy and enthusiasm they lacked in the first half. On their first possession of the second half, Dudinski scored on a 77-yard touchdown run to cut the deficit to 21-14.
On the ensuing possession, Dudinski would intercept Broad Run quarterback Cole Shain's pass and return it 37 yards to tie the game at 21-21.
A 10-yard touchdown pass from Leizear to Kenny Smith handed the Patriots their first lead. Then, in the fourth quarter, Dudinski scampered 28 yards to set up a one-yard touchdown run by Amechi Anyaugo.
"You know, were not happy to be in second place and although we improved this year, we have a way to go," said Michael Burnett, who completed his first season at then helm of the Spartans. "District Champions is what we want." Despite the loss - which cost Broad Run a share of the district title - the Ashburn community is pleased with the work Burnett has done with a team that went 1-9 a year ago.
With the win, Park View will host 10-0 Louisa on Friday night in the first round of the Division 4 playoffs.
