Carrying a two-game winning streak on their backs, the Rush City football team faced off against Hinckley-Finlayson on Oct. 5 and lost 12-7.

The Tigers had several high-quality scoring chances throughout the game, but failed to capitalize. Turnovers also didn't help Rush City's cause.

"We had inopportune turnovers and penalties that stopped drives and potential scores," head coach Greg Hills said.

Rush City's lone touchdown came in the fourth quarter when junior James Fregien caught a five-yard pass from Jason Benson.

Sophomore "Red" Bosman, the Tigers staring quarterback the entire season, was injured in the second quarter of the game. Hills said he is expected to return for Thursday's game against Esko.

Hinckley-Finlayson scored once in the first quarter and then again in the fourth quarter to end all scoring.

The Tigers offense collected 48 yards passing. Jason Benson took all the throws in the quarterback position. He ended the game connecting on three passes for 48 yards.

Benson was also efficient on defense, leading the team with 18 tackles and a fumble recovery.

On the ground, Ethan Turner was the team's leading rusher. Turner finished the game with 11 carries for 40 yards.

"We had solid effort throughout and had many players, who played both ways, show a lot of heart and character. We need to put our focus on finishing drives and being more fundamentally sound in our upcoming game with Esko on Thursday night," Hills said.

Great Polar Blue Div. Football

Pine City 3-0, 5-1; Braham 3-1, 3-3; Hinckley-Finlayson 2-1, 5-1; Rush City 2-2, 2-4; Crosby-Ironton 0-3, 1-5; Aitkin 0-4, 0-6.

Section 7AA standings

Moose Lake-Willow River 6-0, Deer River 5-1, Greenway 5-1, Hinckley-Fin. 5-1, Braham 3-3, Rush City 2-4, Duluth Marshall 0-6, Mesabi East 0-6.