No. 8 Ankeny holds off No. 10 Cedar Rapids Prairie, 17-14

CEDAR RAPIDS — Prairie football coach Kyle Knock believes that although his team suffered a tough loss on Friday, the Hawks will be able to bounce back next week.

“We will just go back to work,” he said after losing to Class 5A eighth-ranked Ankeny, 17-14, on Friday. “I expect big things from our kids next week.”

Ankeny (4-2) struck first early in the first quarter. No. 10 Prairie's offense was not able to get going in the first half, as Will Phillips racked up three interceptions.

Going into the fourth quarter, Prairie was determined to get on the board. Running back Casey Kelley scored a touchdown early in the quarter.

With about four minutes left of the game, Prairie created some momentum. Phillips connected with wide receiver Apollo Payne for a touchdown.

This put pressure on Ankeny.

Ankeny quarterback Luke Anderson threw an interception late in the fourth, giving Prairie some hope.

But Prairie was not able to get it done. Ankeny had its back against the wall but Prairie's quarterback sneak attempt fourth-and-1 at the goal line was unsuccessful.

Anderson completed 14 of 25 passes and gather 109 yards, while Phillips connected for 7-of-16 passing and 120 yards.

Ankeny running back Daniel Larmie had 16 rushes for 84 yards. Ankeny had 139 rushing yards and 170 passing yards, for 309 in total

Kelley had 28 rushes for 115 yards. Payne had four carries for 97 yards. Prairie had 181 rushing yards and 120 passing yards for a total of 301.

Kelley and Payne have been having good seasons. Kelley has had 10 touchdowns through six games, and 761 yards in total. Payne has had four touchdowns and 449 yards.

“Their leadership is important. They're three (Will Phillips included) of our better leaders,” Knock said. “We rely on them when times get tough.”

Phillips also has been a big part of Prairie’s season. He has thrown seven touchdowns and passed for 921 yards.

“Tonight they came through with some big plays when they had to,” Knock said.

Next week the Hawks play Cedar Rapids Jefferson at Kingston Stadium.

“Jefferson, they've had some stumbles lately and we will be ready to go,” Knock said.