Anselmo-Merna Faces Lawrence-Nelson in D3 State Football Semi-Finals - Game on KBBN

The NSAA state football playoffs continue today with the state semi-finals in all classes.

The Anselmo-Merna Coyotes are one of four teams remaining in the Class D3 bracket. The Coyotes edged Wausa in the opening round (36-30). In the quarterfinals, AM scored 30 unanswered points in the second half to pull away from GACC 46-20 to advance. After starting the season 1-2, the Coyotes have not lost since. Anselmo-Merna head coach Troy Gilligan told KCNI/KBBN sports that he is very proud of what the team has been able to accomplish.

“Yeah, for sure. We kind of look back to the beginning of the year and it’s crazy to look at the team that we had then compared to the team now and just super proud of all of them and for what they’ve achieved so far.”

One of the areas that has shown the most growth and improvement during the season, according to coach Gilligan, has been Anselmo-Merna’s defense. Gilligan said players becoming more confident and comfortable in their roles has facilitated the development of the defensive unit.

“I think a lot of it’s just getting comfortable in their roles. At the beginning of the year you’re a little bit hesitant to do things and just trusting your gut. Our linebackers are playing well, our D line is getting pressure which really frees up everybody else so our skills guys can go make make plays. Um but just yeah, just comfortability I think is the main thing.”

During their playoff run, coach Gilligan said he has seen the team’s belief and confidence continue blossom.

“Yeah, for sure. You come into playoffs sitting at the twelfth seed getting that first big win against Wausa and then last week against Guardian Angels. That in itself just gives you a lot of confidence knowing that you are a good football team and that you can play with anybody.”

Lawrence-Nelson is the only remaining unbeaten team in Class D3. The top seeded Raiders advanced to the semis with wins over St. Mary’s (42-26) and Wynot (58-24). Today’s game between Lawrence-Nelson and Anselmo-Merna will be broadcast on KBBN 95.3 FM and kbbn.com with kickoff scheduled for 6 p.m. The winner will advance to the Class D3 state championship game on November 20th in Kearney. Today’s other D3 semifinal will feature Central Valley hosting Archangels Catholic of Humphrey.

FULL INTERVIEW WITH COACH GILLIGAN