Staff Report

Sheridan pulls away late to defeat North Miami, 40-21

SHERIDAN — Sheridan answered North Miami’s third-quarter comeback with 13 unanswered points in the fourth Friday night, securing a 40-21 victory in a Class 1A sectional opener.

The Blackhawks carried a 20-7 lead into halftime, holding the Warriors scoreless in the second quarter.

North Miami made its push after the break. The Warriors scored 14 third-quarter points while limiting Sheridan to seven, trimming the Blackhawks’ advantage to 27-21 entering the final period.

With its lead down to six, Sheridan regained control. The Blackhawks scored 13 points and shut out North Miami over the final 12 minutes to end the comeback threat.

Hayden Alexander powered Sheridan’s running game with 166 yards and three touchdowns on 17 carries, averaging nearly 10 yards per attempt.

Quarterback Brock Hagan complemented that ground attack by completing 11 of 14 passes for 201 yards and three touchdowns. Landon Moffitt caught four passes for 87 yards and a score.

Sheridan improved to 6-4 and advanced to face unbeaten Pioneer in the sectional semifinals. North Miami finished its season 3-7.