Emporia High erased an early deficit with 20 unanswered points in the second quarter, but Labette County rallied in the second half to hand the Spartans a 29-28 loss Friday night at Lucas Field.
Emporia opened the game by turning the ball over on downs, and Labette County responded with a 50-yard scoring drive to take a 7-0 lead.
The Spartans then fumbled on their next possession and trailed by seven after the opening quarter.
Emporia found its offense early in the second quarter. Ben Collins scored on a 2-yard touchdown run with 10:37 remaining in the half. The Spartans were unable to convert the ensuing two-point attempt, cutting the deficit to 7-6.
The Black and Red defense then created another opportunity when Emporia blocked a Labette County punt, taking over at the Grizzlies’ 29-yard line.
The Spartans cashed in, with Collins finding the end zone again on a 4-yard touchdown run to put Emporia in front.
Emporia’s defense added to the lead moments later. The Spartans forced a fumble, and Jerald Clifton scooped up the loose ball and returned it for a touchdown.
The defensive score put Emporia ahead 20-7, completing a 20-point second quarter for the Spartans.
Labette County answered just before halftime with a touchdown, trimming Emporia’s lead to 20-14 at the break.
The Grizzlies carried that momentum into the second half, scoring on their opening possession to take a 21-20 lead.
Emporia responded with another big play from its rushing attack. Cael Claibourn broke free for a 44-yard touchdown run, putting the Spartans back in front.
Labette County answered again on its next possession, finding the end zone on the ground. The Grizzlies then converted a two-point try to take a 29-28 advantage.
Emporia had opportunities to reclaim the lead but was unable to finish either of its final two possessions, turning the ball over on downs each time.
The loss drops the Spartans to 2-1 on the season.
Emporia High returns to Welch Stadium next Friday to host Junction City as the Spartans open Centennial League play.
