Maine News Updates

PORTLAND — Senior running back Josh Strickland rushed for 298 yards and four touchdowns as Leavitt High of Turner defeated Cape Elizabeth 35-21 for the Class B football championship Saturday night at Fitzpatrick Stadium.

Strickland, who rushed for 507 yards in the Hornets' first two playoff wins, scored three touchdowns in the second half, including runs of 36 and 51 yards in the fourth quarter.

it was 12-0 Leavitt's first state championship since 1998. Cape Elizabeth finished 11-1.

"They were the better team,'' said Aaron Filieo, the Cape coach. "It's that simple.''

Leading 21-14 entering the fourth quarter, Leavitt scored early on Strickland's 36-yard run. The Capers would score with 1:10 remaining on a 3-yard run by Tom Foden, but Leavitt's Lucas Whitham recovered the on-side kick.

On the next play, Strickland broke through for a 51-yard touchdown.

"This means a lot to these guys,'' said Leavitt coach Mike Hathaway. "They've worked as hard as anyone and they've done it together.''