No panic: Arbor View storms back to beat Liberty, earn Gorman rematch at state

Arbor View Aggies cornerback Michael Miniano (35) intercepts a pass intended for Liberty Patriots wide receiver Louden Williams (6) during a high school football Open Division semifinal game at Liberty High School in Henderson Friday, Nov. 14, 2025. The Aggies defeated the Patriots 41-28 to advance to the state finals. Photo by: Steve Marcus

The Arbor View football team trailed by seven points in the second half of tonight's Open Division semifinals against host Liberty. But they didn't panic.

Instead, the Aggies rallied to score 27 unanswered points, securing a 41-28 victory and a spot in the state championship game on Nov. 25 against Bishop Gorman at Allegiant Stadium. It's a rematch of last season's title game, which Gorman won.

The Aggies' composure under pressure comes from the adversity they've faced all season. They opened with three straight losses — some of them ugly defeats — in failing to meet expectations of a team ranked in the top 300 nationally.

But they didn't quit. Instead, Arbor View has now won eight straight games, including tonight's triumph in which the Aggies' defense forced six turnovers.

"Just continue to trust in what we do," coach Sam Norris said. "It might be cliche, but there is a lesson in everything we do. Certain lessons we learned throughout the season we were able to build on. We've learned to do our best to handle the adversity when it comes."

Aisek Brown had an interception return for the Aggies, and Darion Merriweather returned a fumble for a touchdown. Michael Miniano had two interceptions.

"They did a good job fighting and believing in one another," Norris said.

Zac Fares and Jayden Williams had touchdown receptions from Thaddeus Thatcher. Kamareion Bell had a touchdown on offense and an interception on defense.

And now comes the potential for more adversity.

Since 2009, Gorman has only lost once in the state finals. Last year, Arbor View lost 69-7.

"It's a challenge to play against anyone to win a state championship," Norris said. "Our job is to play the best we can play and control us. We understand the success Gorman has had and have a ton of respect for them."