MARYSVILLE — Lakewood entered its Thursday night showdown with South Whidbey knowing a win would clinch its first league championship — share or outright — in 17 years.
Justin Peterson didn’t leave time for any nervous feelings to creep down the spines of the Cougars’ home crowd. With four touchdowns in the first half, Peterson propelled the Cougars to a 27-0 halftime lead. The final 24 minutes were academic as Lakewood claimed its share of the Cascade Conference title with a 34-7 defeat of South Whidbey and earned the league’s No. 1 seed into the district playoffs. Archbishop Murphy (6-1, 8-1), defeated Sultan on Thursday night to claim the other share of the conference championship and the second seed.
“It feels awesome. It has been a long time since Lakewood has had even a share of a title,” Cougars head coach Dan Teeter said. “We kept (the celebration) in the locker room short and let the kids go out and celebrate with the fans that came out to support them.”
Peterson rushed nine times for 80 yards and three touchdowns, caught two passes, including another touchdown, and also completed six of 12 passes for 47 yards.
Lakewood’s 287-yard rushing attack was led by senior Christian Melton, who finished with 142 yards on 19 carries.
“Our offensive line was phenomenal,” added Teeter. “That’s two weeks in a row we really dominated up front.”
After 17 years, the Cougars finally return to the playoffs as a No. 1 seed looking to make a serious run for the 2A state title.
“I think we’re a talented team. We’ve got some experience in the playoffs from last year and we’re hoping that can carry us through districts,” said Teeter. “Hopefully we’ll have a chance.”
At Lakewood H.S.
South Whidbey0007—7
Lakewood141370—34
L—Peterson 15 run (pass failed)
L—Peterson 17 run (Bean pass from Peterson)
L—Peterson 22 pass from Schueler (pass failed)
L—Peterson 22 run (Anaya kick)
L—Evans 7 run (Anaya kick)
SW—French 41 run (Booth kick)
Records—South Whidbey 3-4 league, 4-5 overall. Lakewood 6-1, 8-1.
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