For the second straight year, and the second time in school history, the boys’ varsity football team is headed to state.

The boys defeated Springfield on March 18 in the section finals 21-20 at Springfield University’s Gorman Center.

Harding led by seven at halftime and built a 14-point lead with eight minutes to go, but Springfield roared back with a touchdown to cut the lead to 21-14. The Chargers answered back with a 44-yard touchdown pass from senior captain Matt Larkins to junior Patrick Hoflin. Senior Anthony Curran added the extra point to make the lead 28-14.

Just as they have done all season, the seniors from Harding carried the team. Senior running back Taylor Johnson and junior running back Jeff Hardy combined for 180 yards.

Springfield came out from the beginning with confidence, playing scrappy and not intimidated by the top-seeded Chargers. They had nearly upset Harding earlier this year 17-14 on October 10. Senior Stoddard Barnhill led the way for Springfield with 2 touchdowns and 87 yards rushing