SMITHVILLE – Division 1A fans came expecting a knock-down, drag-out fight for the top spot and got what they paid for as the Okolona Chieftains and Smithville Seminoles met to decide the honor.

The game, moved to Thursday night to avoid bad weather, proved to be a defensive battle from both ends, but the Seminoles ultimately came out on the winning side of the scoreboard.

Neither team scored in the first quarter and the Seminoles put up the first points in the second quarter with a 21-yard FG by Antuwne Freeman. The Chiefs came back within a minute completing a drive with Derrick Ivy’s 15-yard run for TD, followed by a pass from Zack Brooks to Kentray Ware for the conversion and an 8-3 lead.

The Seminoles went to the defense for their next score as a blocked punt in the end zone was recovered for a safety and the half ended with the Chiefs up 8-5.

A third quarter injury to Smithville QB A. Freeman recharged the Seminoles who dedicated the rest of the game to him.

“We just wanted to do it for him,” said Smithville’s Damantrio Freeman.

In the fourth quarter, D. Freeman got a 14-yard run for TD and Chirstopher Dedow’s PAT was good for a 12-8 lead. Steve Adams forced a Brook’s fumble for another Smithville safety and the Seminoles held the Chiefs for the 14-8 win.

The Chiefs loss dropped them to second place in division, but secured them a host position on Nov. 6. They will face the winner of Coffeeville/Shaw.

The Chiefs will be on the road this Friday traveling to Coldwater for their final regular season game.