The Highland Rams football team led by the heroic efforts of senior running back Talo Latu, quarterback James Pembroke, and a stout defense, were able to gain a non-region victory over the Provo Bulldogs, winning 24-14.

Starting off with a 50 yard run in the start of the second quarter, the Rams consistently stayed at least a touchdown ahead, with a comfortable lead for the duration of the game. Manufacturing a solid drive at the end of the second quarter to score a field goal, made it so the Rams were up 10-0 at the halftime break.

They capitalized off of this momentum gained in the first half and started off the second half strong with a balanced touchdown drive highlighted by a 35 yard run by junior Jake Boren. After a great start to the second half for the Rams, Provo was able to gain some momentum of their own scoring on a long drive. Then, after getting the ball back, Provo looked like it was about to make it a one score game by attempting a 32 yard field goal. However, their attempt was blocked, picked out of the air, and returned for a touchdown by Latu. Latu’s return was the play of the game, effectively sealing it for the Rams and leading them to a 24-14 victory.

Latu had an explosive night scoring two of Highland’s three touchdowns. On both the offensive and defensive side of the ball, Latu was on fire.  Beating defenders off the run and returning the blocked field goal were huge plays for the Highland team as a whole.

“I was tired but what kept me going was my teammates blocking behind me,” Latu said regarding his impressive return.

Ryan Lambson also had a stellar game, both offensively and defensively. Lambson was tasked with guarding Ty Jones, a player who is considered one of the top receivers in the state. But Lambson was up for the challenge.

“Coach Benson has been preaching all year, once you get hit in the mouth, it’s about getting back up and not giving up, and I think we did that tonight,” Lambson said.

Head Coach Brody Benson was also impressed with the big win for the Rams tonight.

“I think that overall our effort, our intensity, and our pursuit of the football was good. It at least gave us the chance to be successful tonight” Benson said.

Highladn led an impressive game tonight, with their special teams, offensive, and defensive players all outworking the Bulldogs across the board. Now after this short break in region play, the Rams turn their sights to Woods Cross in a key region showdown.  That game will be played at Highland on October 2nd.