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<p><strong>From staff reports</strong></p>
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<p>Whale Branch bounced back from a heartbreaking loss a week ago to beat visiting Cross, 31-14, on Friday, assuring the Warriors of a home game in the first round of the playoffs.</p>
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<p>The Warriors’ region title hopes took a hit with a 30-25 loss to Baptist Hill last week, but Whale Branch was back to its winning ways against the Trojans. Kai’Shawn Jenkins had a big game, rushing for a touchdown and tossing a 63-yard touchdown pass to Jakhi Pusha, who also added a 7-yard scoring run.</p>
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<p>The Warriors’ defense shut out the Trojans in the second half with the help of interceptions from Mason Griffin and Kamron Holman. Griffin took his pick back for a touchdown.</p>
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<p>Whale Branch star Joseph Hicks helped anchor the defense but carried a lighter load in the backfield due to back soreness.</p>
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<p>Whale Branch (4-1, 3-1) is off next week before traveling to Estill on Oct. 15. The Warriors are also seeking an opponent for Oct. 22.</p>
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