Darren Kinnard/River Radio Sports Central
JOHNSTON CITY — Ralph Davison Field in Johnston City was mostly quiet Friday evening, nothing like the raucous scene that will play out Saturday afternoon.
The Indians were making their final preparations before hosting Maroa-Forsyth in a 2A state semifinal with the winner headed for Bloomington-Normal Friday for the state championship game.
This will be Johnston City’s second semifinal appearance in three seasons. The Indians lost on the road to eventual state champion Decatur St. Teresa on a frigid November day two years ago. Now they will welcome a Trojans’ program no stranger to the big stage. Maroa-Forsyth has won two state championships and finished second twice under head coach Josh Jostes. The Trojans have lost in the semifinals each of the past two seasons.
M-F almost didn’t make the semifinals, but a touchdown and 2-point conversion in the final minute saved the day as the Trojans beat Quincy Notre Dame 22-21.
The Indians meanwhile will be playing their fourth home playoff game, after beating Red Bud, Warrensburg-Latham, and Pana along the way.
Kickoff is set for 3:30.
