OAKES, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Oakes’ defense forced four turnovers in route to their 35-23 victory over the Rugby Panthers.

The two teams were tied at 15 before Oakes would rattle off 20 in a row to open the game up early  in the 4th quarter. The effort of the Tornadoes received high praise from head coach Greg Dobitz.

The Tornadoes scored on their first drive on an 8 play, 65 yard drive capped off by a 2 yard run by fullback Marc Seyer and put together a consistent, effective attack all day. Quarterback Garret Meehl was a big reason why. Meehl’s damage dealt out came on the ground as he kept many plays alive with his feet and had a 45 yard touch run in the first quarter.

Dobitz stated the importance of Meehl on his team.

Meehl, who also added a big boost on defense and special teams, didn’t need to throw a lot because of how good the rushing attack was. Senior Logan Sell was spectacular with well over 100 yards on the ground and he found the endzone  on both offense and defense. An 8 yard rushing touchdown and an interception returned for a score.

It’s the second consecutive game for the Tornadoes with a defensive score.

Oakes defense took three fumbles away from the Rugby offense including the final dagger when Meehl added on to his already scintillating performance with a game sealing fumble recovery.

Other notable performers include Steele Hansen and Ashton Biesterfeld each recording two sacks.

Rugby’s most notable performance came from their quarterback-wide receiver duo of Jaden Hamilton and Devan Michels. Hamilton had three passing touchdowns with two going to Michels.

Oakes advances, however, and will square off with the number one team out of Region 2 Langdon Area/Edmore/Munich. The Cardinals beat Northern Cass to advance to the quarterfinals.