Despite Tupper Lake’s season coming to a close, head coach Dennis Klossner was proud of how his team came out and played well right from the start and finished strong.

During the regular season, Taconic Hills scored 294 points, averaging 29 points per game and the Lumberjacks held them to 17 — the Titans’ lowest scoring game this year.

“The kids played a great game,” Klossner said. “Defensively, we were very physical, swarmed the ball and gang tackled. Offensively, we moved the ball pretty well but were unable to put enough points up. I am very proud of the game the team played.”

The Titans scored a touchdown on their opening drive, before Tupper Lake responded as Liam McClain reached the endzone. However, the Lumberjacks were unable to capitalize on the extra point attempt, keeping the score 7-6.

A crew of Tupper Lake football players, which includes Cooper McDonald, Cohen Gerstenberger and Brendan Clark team up for a tackle during Friday’s game against Taconic Hills. (Provided photo)

Taconic Hills added another touchdown in the second quarter and a field goal after halftime to secure the victory. Tupper Lake struggled to gain yards on offense, halting any comeback effort.

“Penalties (also) put us behind the chains,” Klossner said. “But I am still impressed with the composure of the team and how they played.”

The Lumberjacks finished the season with a 2-7 overall record. They defeated the OnTech (Syracuse) Grey Wolves 30-12 and earned a forfeit victory over the Hoosic Valley Hawks, which didn’t have enough players. However, Klosser was proud of how his team battled every game and thanked those who supported the program.

“I would like to thank the booster club for providing the team with a Charter bus, adding to the experience and making the ride to Taconic Hills a comfortable and relaxing ride,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Titans, which improved to 7-3 overall, advanced to the state semifinal round, where they will await their next opponent. The 8-man state championship game will be played at Cicero-North Syracuse High School.

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Taconic Hills 17, Tupper Lake 6

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Lumberjacks 6 0 0 0 — 6

Titans 7 7 3 0 — 17

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Offensive stats

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Rushing

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TL — McClain 21-121, TD; Gerstenberger 2-12; McDonald 1-5. TOTALS: 24-138, TD.

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Passing

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TL — Durfee 2-8-0-12.

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Receiving

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TL — Bencze 1-6; LaValley 1-6.

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Defensive stats:

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TL — Gerstenberger 14 tackles,1 sack, 1 fumble recovery, 2 passes defended; McDonald 12 tackles, 1 sack; McClain 6 tackles, 1 caused fumble; Bencze 6 tackles, 1 sack; Dukett 3 tackles, 2 passes defended; Skiff 1 tackle; Switzer 1 tackle; Clark 1 tackle; Lo Bue 1 tackle.