The Hudson Pirates kept their Class 1A playoff hopes alive Friday night, with a 16-13 victory over Denver in a Class 1A non-district battle in Hudson.
The Pirates, playing without starting quarterback, Connor Simpson, went to a makeshift Wildcat offense and got just enough offense to hold off the Cyclones.
Hudson got first half touchdowns from Connor Wrage and Aaron Marcellus. Marcellus also kicked a 27-yard field goal, which proved to be the game-winner for the Pirates.
Denver, already qualified for the Class 1A playoffs, also came into the game with hurting with injuries.
The Cyclones played without three starters and also went to a wildcat formation, trying to find some offense.
Denver finishes the regular season next Friday against St. Ansgar, while Hudson plays host to West Fork. A victory should secure the Pirates a playoff spot.