Goodyear’s Desert Edge Triumphs as 5A State Champions

In a thrilling match, the Desert Edge Scorpions secured a decisive victory over the Cactus Cobras, winning the 5A State Championship Game 28-19 in Tempe.

Goodyear’s Desert Edge Scorpions, now boasting a record of 9-4, advanced to this championship showdown after defeating No. 6 Verrado 27-14 in the semifinals. This marks their second consecutive appearance in the 5A title game, having lost narrowly to Higley last year.

The Cactus Cobras, with a record of 10-3, made an impressive run to the championship after an unexpected victory against ALA-Gilbert North in the semifinals. This championship game represented their first appearance in the 5A finals and their tenth overall. Despite multiple title wins in lower divisions, the Cobras missed an opportunity to add a fourth state championship to their legacy.

Historically, the Scorpions have contested five state championship matches, previously claiming victory in 2015, while the Cobras’ last title game involvement in 2020 was also a hard-fought loss. In their recent matchups, Desert Edge has generally performed well against Cactus, leading the series 5-4 after earlier defeating them this season 21-6.

As the local high school football scene garners attention, the passion for sports remains strong throughout Arizona, serving as a testament to the vibrant athletic community in the region.