The Sheridan Broncs kept their football season alive with a 28-14 victory at home over Kelly Walsh in a quarterfinal matchup. The Broncs, who improved to 8-2 in the season, will play Gillette Friday for a berth to the state championship game. In the past six seasons, only once have the Broncs dropped a game in Gillette, promising odds for this year’s team.

Sheridan started strong and never looked back, beginning with senior Nate Kane’s touchdown run on their first drive. Regaining possession, senior quarterback Kevin Bakkehaug found junior Nick Gill for a short touchdown pass, creating a 14 point lead. In the second quarter, kicker Gunner Edeen added a field goal to boost the score to 17-0. The Trojans would respond with a touchdown of their own, but Edeen finished the half with another field goal.

In the second half, Bakkehaug added two more touchdowns and completed a spectacular pass play to senior Casey Carlton, who had a diving one-handed grab for a two-point conversation. Kelly Walsh was able to score one more touchdown before the end, but they weren’t able to come any closer and the game ended, the Broncs on top.

The Broncs travel to Gillette to play the only once defeated Camels in the State semifinal contest. Earlier in the year, played in Sheridan at Homer Scott Field, the Broncs battled back from a halftime deficit to come within a field goal, but fell short 21-18. Junior Tyler Julian said about the rematch that “We’ll be looking to win. Anyone can win in the second game.”

The Broncs will have to overcome several injuries, including that of kicker Edeen, who broke his ankle during a kickoff play against Kelly Walsh. The Broncs also hope to have Junior Daniel Sessions back, who missed the Kelly Walsh contest with a knee injury.

The game is scheduled for Friday night, Nov. 1 at 7 o’clock in Gillette.