LEWES, DE - A well-fought game in the rain against Salesianum couldn’t dull the shine of an astounding 2023 season run for Cape Henlopen’s Vikings, though it ultimately came to an end Friday night.
The Vikings ensured Salesianum’s victory was far from guaranteed, with an impressive first half performance that left their rivals mostly playing catch-up.
A touchdown pass in the first quarter started things off strong for the Vikings. The Sallies answered in kind in the second quarter, and two field goals by both teams put the score at 10-10 at the half, hinting at a possible nailbiter.
The Sallies, however, returned from the halftime break with a renewed vigor in the slippery conditions, and an impressive 73-yard touchdown catch followed by a pick six in the 3rd quarter put them two scores ahead of Cape.
Another two TDs from the Sallies in the 3rd and 4th quarters widened that lead. The Vikings were unable to bridge that gap, despite a TD that was quickly mirrored by the Sallies to put the game at 45-17 Salesianum.
Still, it was a historic night for Cape Henlopen, as the last time the school had competed for the State Championship was in 1984. Almost 40 years later, Cape Henlopen has reemerged as a Delaware High School Football all-star contender.
Despite the loss, the Cape Henlopen Vikings can return to Lewes knowing they gave the season - and tonight’s championship game - their all.