The KC Jr. Blues defeated a very tough in-state opponent, holding off a comeback by= St. Louis University High to win 33-26.

This has become a huge rivalry in recent years as the two teams have played in the state final in four of the last five seasons. Without starting No. 8 Ayden Augspurg, the Blues still started well, scoring the opening two tries to lead 12-0.

SLUH replied with a try, and the teams traded tries for a 19-12 KC lead at the break.

In the first 15 minutes of the second half, the Junior Blues scored two converted tries to seemingly put the game away 33-12.

But St. Louos University High wouldn't back down and scored two late tries to get within a score.

SLUH Coach Chris Keeven said his team usually ends up osing to KC by only a few points.

His team played well, said Keeven, "but we just haven't been able to get over that hump ... yet."

Despite having two started injured, SLUH played well as a team. Props Trey Saleeby and Darion Mullins anchored the pack, while flyhalf Owen Tucker and center Andrew Finlay were effective on attack. Rookies Maceo Cummings and Luke Schuermann filled in for regular starters nively.

For KC, lock Will Kasyjanski stole several SLUH lineouts and played well in the breakdown. Scrumhalf Nick Blake and prop Mona Faitau were very effective.

KC Jr. Blues followed that game with a 29-0 defeat of Lindbergh on Sunday. Simeon Leau-Fiso had a very strong game at fullback running through the Lindbergh defense and he did well returning the Lindbergh kicks.  Back Lentrayle Brown also had a strong game.