The football field on the grounds of Durant High School played host to a pivitol district battle between West Branch and Durant Friday night. The winner stayed in the hunt for the Class 1A District 5 title heading into the final week of the regular season next week.

Coming in, the West Branch defense had the task of limiting a potent Durant offense, lead by running back, Nolan Delong, that was averaging 35.5 points per game. Going into week 6, the sophomore DeLong was tied for the lead in all of Class 1A with 898 rushing yards (224.5 per game, through Durant's four games). Achieved the task the defense did. West Branch allowed just 21 points (none in the second half) and held DeLong to 20 yards on 13 carries.

The defensive effort, combined with a dominant offensive line, propelled the Bears to a 28-21 victory. Entering the fourth quarter, the Bears were down 21-13, but with a strong quarter, the Bears overcame the deficit with a 15 point swing. West Branch improves their record to 4-2 overall and 2-1 in the district. The Bears will travel to Dyersville next week to take on the Beckman Blazers to close out the regular season.

Check out highlights, post game interviews, photos, and more from Friday night's victory below.