The Iola Middle School Mustangs’ season came to an unfortunate end after falling to Burlington 21-8 in Tuesday’s Bowl Game.
After upsetting Burlington for the Pioneer League title earlier this month, Iola could not overcome a second quarter deficit in the rematch.
“We didn’t finish the season the way we wanted,” IMS coach Scott Ellis said. “Even so, there’s absolutely nothing for these young men to hang their heads about. Burlington’s offense was tough to contain today, and a few mistakes on our end kept them in control of the clock.”
After ending the first quarter in a 0-0 stalemate, Burlington jumped out to a double-digit lead in the second after scoring a pair of touchdowns, heading into halftime with a 14-0 lead.
Running back Milo Franklin put Iola on the scoreboard with a touchdown in the third quarter while picking up seven of his team-leading 46 yards rushing.
Franklin was far from the only offensive contributor for Iola as Axtin Christensen rushed for 14. Behind center, Jaxon Mueller completed eight passes for 89 yards.
Franklin was Mueller’s go-to target with 35 yards on three receptions while Cade Curry had one for 25 and Christensen picked up 13 yards with his only reception.
Defensively, Franklin tied Austin Campbell and Jayson Dorlus for the team lead in tackles with seven each. Michael Hancock had six while Ty Thomas and Kaiden Jones had five each. Jones and Hancock also had two sacks each. Curry, who had three tackles, accounted for Iola’s only turnover with an interception.
“I couldn’t be prouder of this group. They’ve been a coachable, hardworking, and determined bunch all season long,” Coach Ellis said.
“This is a talented, athletic class with multiple offensive weapons and a relentless defensive mindset. I am truly going to miss coaching them.”
