The Chippewa Hills Warriors struggled to open the 2020 campaign. They lost their first four games, all by double digits. Last week, they snapped that streak with an impressive offensive rhythm in their 39-27 win over Newaygo. This Friday, their special teams was the difference in a 19-16 win over the Tri-County Vikings.

Tri-County started the scoring in this game as Nate Lovell found the end zone from two yards out. Tyler Tompkins ran in the two-point try to make it 8-0 Vikings early in this contest.

Chippewa Hills responded with a touchdown run of their own. Trenten Wiggins rushed for a three-yard score, but the unsuccessful two-point try left the lead in the Vikings’ hands at 8-6.

Lovell’s second touchdown rush of the game gave Tri-County a 16-6 lead, and once again the Warriors faced a double digit deficit. Chippewa Hills was resilient however, and they would chip away at that lead. It would start with Gage Todd two yard touchdown run. Todd would also score the winning touchdown on a five yard carry. Gavin Miller booted the extra point to give Chippewa Hills a three-point lead that ultimately the Vikings could not overcome.

Special teams were vital in this game. Chippewa Hills recovered a pair of onside kicks, including one on the opening kick of the second half. These big momentum plays proved to be the difference in this contest.