Lady Vikes flag football advance to next round; VHS season ends on the road

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Warren Central High School’s flag football team will have a chance to compete for a state championship next weekend after defeating North Panola 12-6 in the first round of the playoffs Thursday.

The win keeps the Lady Vikes undefeated at 6-0 as they advance deeper into postseason play.

Thursday’s game was highlighted by a dominant defensive effort. Keasia Williams set the tone early, intercepting a pass and returning it 75 yards for a touchdown to open the scoring. She later added a second interception to cap a standout performance.

“We put our all in this and we chasing those rings,” Williams said. “We’re going to keep playing hard and make it as far as we can.”

Warren Central led 6-0 at halftime behind Williams’ lone score. In the second half, Malia Croom made her presence felt defensively, recording multiple flag pulls in the backfield.

The Lady Vikes’ offense began to find momentum as quarterback Ka’Ryn Henderson gained key yards on scrambles, while Shaniyah Lewis broke loose for a long run.

North Panola tied the game at 6-6 with eight minutes remaining after intercepting a pass and returning it for a touchdown.

Warren Central responded with a series of big plays, including a 35-yard reception by Camara Evans, though the drive initially stalled. Momentum shifted again late when Croom recorded an interception to set up the go-ahead score.

Henderson continued to extend plays with her legs before connecting with Lewis on a 12-yard touchdown pass to give the Lady Vikes a 12-6 lead.

Williams secured the victory moments later with her second interception of the game.

Warren Central will play at Mississippi College next weekend, where it could face up to three opponents in pursuit of a state championship.

VHS:

Vicksburg High took a 33-18 loss to Southaven. Jordan Powell scored two touchdowns and Aaliyah Mims scored one as the Missy Gators season came to an end.