BOTHELL – Talk about perseverance. In a game that went into a state record nine overtimes Bothell came out on top over Pasco 43-40 in a 4A state playoff game at Pop Keeney Stadium in Bothell.

“I’m 41 years old and I’ve played football since I was eight, and I’ve never seen a game like this,” said Bothell coach Tom Bainter, clutching his chest and wiping away tears. “I feel heartbroken for (Pasco) and so excited for our kids.”

The longest game in Washington prep football history tied a national record set in Detroit in 1977

“Kids cramped up,” Bothell Bainter said about the four-plus hour game. But there were few injuries, he said, because both teams were “well-conditioned.”

Despite what the score indicates Bainter said the game was a “tremendous defensive battle.” In the first three overtimes the ball is placed on 25 yard line. From the fourth on it is moved up to the 10.

“Great defensive play on both sides,” Bainter acknowledged.

Bothell and Pasco (both came into the game with 11-1 records) ended regulation tied at 14. After exchanging field goals throughout the first eight overtimes, Bothell was finally able to win the game in the ninth.

After the defense held Pasco to another field goal – a 33-yarder kicked by the kicker/quarterback Nick Kelly – Luke Jones broke free for a game-ending 10-yard touchdown run

And Washington’s longest prep football game ended. Fans cheered loudly, both for the Bothell victory, Pasco’s effort, and the end of the game.

The Cougars’ offense finished with 182 rushing yards-thanks in large part to Jones and Jon Kirchner who had 143 yards on 21 carries-and 95 passing yards.