VALLEY CITY, ND (NewsDakota.com) When a prize fighter loses two good punches, it’s tough to win the bout.

Valley City entered their regular season finale with Fargo South without their left hook, record-setting rusher Gavin Gerhardt.

During the bout, they lost their right cross, and, in the process, were bogged down, dropping a 7-3 decision to the Bruins Friday night.

Expecting to carry the load, running back Ethan Miller saw frequent carries early, but suffered an injury that kept him out of action for the entire second half.  Zach Sykora attempted to pick up the slack, rushing for 78 yards.  But the Bruins began to key all of their efforts on the Hi-Liner full back, and the big play could not materialize.

Valley City’s defense was a beast, limiting an athletic South team to just 102 yards of total offense, and continually pressuring Bruin quarterback Brevin Wark.  A 10-yard touchdown pass from work to tight end Zach Thomasson was the difference in the game.  The Bruins held the Hi-Liners to just 107 yards of offense, and a Bryson Heck 21-yard field goal.

The Hi-Liners finish the regular season 7-2.  They will appear, and likely host, a playoff game Friday night.  Final QRF rankings to determine seeding are expected to be released this weekend.