JOHNSTON CITY — The Johnston City Indians got off to a great start then had to hold on to beat Black Diamond Conference foe Flora 36-20 in the first round of the 2A Playoffs.

The Indians dominated the first meeting between the two teams, winning 43-15 back in week 5. The playoff game started out similarly, thanks to Johnston City’s special teams.

Freshman Jace Weaver returned the opening kickoff 84 yards for a touchdown. Then after the Wolves went three and out on their opening possession, the Indians’ blocked a punt, and Evan Sanders returned it for a touchdown. Johnston City led 13-0 5:01 into the game.

Connor Mowery threw a pair of touchdown passes–one to Nolan Causey, the other to Keaton Fort with a Flora touchdown sandwiched between as Johnston City built a 28-7 led at the half.

Flora rallied in the third. Tolliver and Garrett Patridge combined for a 37-yard TD pass, and Beau Propes added a short touchdown run to pull the Wolves within 28-20 by the end of the third.

Flora had a couple of possessions with a chance to tie in the third, but could not convert. Causey ended one with interception, returning all the way to the Flora 3-yard line to set up Boston Peyton’s insurance touchdown. Causey had a huge day with 3 interceptions, a fumble recovery, and a touchdown catch.

The Indians improve to 10-0. They will hit the road in round two to face Arthur/Lovington/Atwood/Hammond next Saturday at 3:00. ALAH is 8-2 after beating Vandalia 41-34.

The Wolves finish 5-5.