The Kirtland High School varsity football team is set to make the program's fifth consecutive state championship game appearance when the Hornets play Maria Stein Marion Local in the Division VI title game on Saturday morning in Columbus.
Senior all-state selection Peter Gabor sealed Kirtland's championship game berth with a goal-line interception in the waning moments of the team's 13-9 state semifinal win against Grandview Heights.
The Hornets, who last brought home the championship hardware in 2013, is seeking the program's third state title. They've only lost three games – including regular season and postseason contests – since 2011.
In addition to Gabor, Kirtland (13-1) is led by all-state honorees David Allchin, Joey Bates, Michael Bragalone, Owen Loncar, Evan Madden, Jonathon Miller and Antonio Rini.
Head coach Tiger LaVerde spoke about his team and the title game with reporters from across the state via teleconference on Monday.
Marion Local (13-1), between Divisions VI and VII, is looking for its fifth consecutive state championship.
Kickoff is set for 10 a.m. at Ohio Stadium
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