A week ago in Daniel High School’s 28-7 third-round playoff victory over Lugoff-Elgin, senior linebacker Wynton Botchway had 10 tackles, including one for loss, and a fumble recovery to pace the Lions’ defense. The North All-Star leads the Lions with 127 tackles on the season and is a big reason Daniel has held its opponents to only 8.7 points per game this year. This week, Botchway and the Lions take on Chester in the Upper State championship game, in what will also be the final game at Singleton Field in Central.

DJM: How does it feel knowing you’re within four quarters of going to the State Championship?

BOTCHWAY: It feels great actually. We haven’t been there in 10 years, so we have to go out there and do it on Friday night.

DJM: Is the Upper State championship game extra special since it will be against Chester?

BOTCHWAY: They got my tail last year. I’m not going to lie. They’re coming on our field for the fourth round this time though, so it’s a new game.

DJM: What was your reaction like when you found out you would be playing Chester again?

BOTCHWAY: It was nice, because I actually wanted revenge. After you get beat like that, just so bad, you want to play them again.

DJM: What are your memories of the third-round loss to them last season?

BOTCHWAY: It was cold, and it was just touchdown after touchdown. They just kept scoring.

DJM: How different is Chester this year compared to last?

BOTCHWAY: They’re really quick just like last year, except they pass a lot more. They have a good passing quarterback.

DJM: Do you expect things to be different playing Chester at home this time?

BOTCHWAY: It’s a long bus ride down to Chester, so they’ll have to experience that this year, plus we have the home-crowd advantage.

DJM: What kind of atmosphere are you expecting for Friday night?

BOTCHWAY: It’s probably going to be a big crowd because it’s the last time we’re playing on this field.