Morrisville-Eaton football cruises past Taconic Hills to secure spot in 8-man state regional final

The Morrisville-Eaton football team is playing with extra motivation this season.

The Mavericks captured their second 8-man sectional title in four seasons in thrilling fashion last weekend, and they did it in a campaign that will be coach Don Johnson’s last after 30 years at the helm.

Now, Morrisville-Eaton is in the hunt for a bigger prize. The Mavericks beat Section II’s Taconic Hills, 56-21, in the 8-man state regional semifinals on Saturday at SUNY Morrisville.

“The boys played well enough to win,” Morrisville-Eaton coach Don Johnson said.

The victory punched the Mavericks’ ticket to Friday’s 8-man state regional final at Cicero-North Syracuse High School.

“It felt great,” Johnson said. “These boys have played hard all year.”

Gavin Baker had a receiving touchdown for the Mavericks and returned an interception and a fumble for scores. Landen Highers chipped in two passing TDs and a rushing score, while Mason Marland had two rushing TDs.

Morrisville-Eaton will face Section IX’s Eldred in the title game at noon. The Yellowjackets beat Section IV’s Unatego/Franklin in the other regional semifinal contest on Saturday.

“(Friday) should be a barn burner of a game,” Johnson said.

The Mavericks, now 9-2 on the season, will be in search of their first-ever 8-man regional crown.

“With the exception of today’s game, the boys always play with discipline. I’m a very big advocate for it,” Johnson said. “I’ve always told the boys that it always starts with discipline. We’ll have a tough week of practice and get them back on track before Friday.”

Frankfort-Schuyler, the team Morrisville beat in last week’s sectional championship, was the defending 8-man state regional champion.