Donovan not enough for Huskies

ALBURNETT - The Alburnett Pirates, 1-8 a year ago, earned their third postseason triumph in school history and first since 2011, beating Highland, 40-19, in a Class A first-round playoff football game Friday night at Jim Carver Field at Martin Sports Complex. Alburnett will play at Belle Plaine (6-2) in the second round.

The Pirates recorded their fourth consecutive win, improving to 5-2, by posting the first three scores of the game.

The Pirates spoiled a big game by Highland's Owen Donovan. The 5-foot-10, 190-pound hard-running rusher tallied 207 yards on 32 carries. Connor Grinstead added 54 rushing yards and four completions but three interceptions for the Huskies, who finish 1-6.

'Owen played really well,” Highland head coach Scott Morel said. 'The line blocked well in the second half.”

Highland notched two scores after halftime as Caeden Harbison had a rushing TD and Grinstead scampered in from the 20.

'The score doesn't show the game we played,” Morel said.

Donovan had a 61-yard touchdown run in the second quarter to make it 21-7. The Huskies defense forced a 3-and-out, but on fourth down, a called penalty gave the Pirates a first down and they were able to drive for a 27-7 lead at the half.

Highland started the second half with a score and another defensive stand. But again a penalty helped Alburnett drive for a score.