ALBION — The Whitko football team completed step one of its quest for a sectional title Friday evening. The Wildcats traveled to take on Central Noble in the opening round of the IHSAA Sectional 35 Tournament. Whitko scored once in every quarter on its way to a 28-24 win over the host Cougars.

Whitko ran for 335 yards on the night to help secure the win. That rushing attack was led by Hunter Reed’s 124 yards. Garrett Elder ran for 118 yards and two scores for the Wildcats. Colin Craig and Robby Owsley added on rushing score each for the visiting squad. Conner Sherwin led Whitko with seven tackles.

Whitko (7-3) now moves on to host No. 13 Churubusco (8-2) in next week’s sectional semifinal. The Eagles defeated No. 10 Eastside 21-16 Friday night. Whitko and Churubusco met in the sectional semifinals last year, a game the Wildcats won 34-27.