DEVILS LAKE - Devils Lake held a 13-0 lead at halftime, but things quickly turned in the second half. Watford City, still playing with a glimmer of hope for the playoffs, battled back to take a fourth quarter lead 21-19. However, the Firebirds, showed the poise of a defending state champion, getting the game-winning score for a 27-24 victory over the Wolves on Oct. 23 at Roller Field. The outcome was the fourth this season decided by three points or less for DL. The win propels them into the Div. AA playoffs with a 6-3 overall record. Watford City saw its season end at 3-6 overall.

After a scoreless opening quarter, Devils Lake backs Easton Encinas and William Enget finished off drives with short TD runs in the second quarter. Watford City standout Trysten DeVries' 25-yard run got the Wolves on the board. However, DL would regain a two-score margin with Enget's second TD. QB Talon Gregory found Enget for a 19-yard scoring reception. But Watford City would response with a pair of Brogan Shannon scoring runs of 12 and five yards. The Firebirds' final score came on Encinas' second TD.

Devils Lake begins its title defense on the road at (2E) Central Cass on Oct. 30. The Firebirds defeated the Squirrels, 21-19, earlier this season. The stakes, however, are much higher now.