The Ludington Orioles made history last season by posting their third straight winning season and recording their first-ever playoff victory. As their 2021 season began on Friday night, it appears that their star power is poised for another successful campaign.
Trey Forfinski, the signal caller for Ludington, made his presence felt throughout the entirety of this ballgame. He started the scoring in the second quarter, toting the football across the goal line from three yards out. An unsuccessful PAT attempt resulted in the Orioles holding a 6-0 edge at halftime.
Neither team would score in the third quarter, leaving the small margin in tact with twelve minutes to play. Forfinski would spark another scoring play for the Orioles, as he connected with Wilson Gunsell on a 10-yard touchdown pass that extended the Ludington lead to thirteen points.
Just seconds of game time later, Fremont’s offense arose from their slumber and got on the scoreboard. Kyler DeKuiper tossed a pass to Gabe Curtice that went for a 47-yard touchdown strike. The missed PAT left the Packers behind by seven points with eight minutes to go.
Ludington would cement the victory with a touchdown drive. Forfinski capped off the march with a 9-yard touchdown run, and with just four minutes to go, Fremont could not catch up.
A strong rushing attack was vital for Ludington’s success, as Forfinski paced the team with 143 yards and two touchdowns on 16 carries. Aidan Gilchrist added 129 rushing yards on just six carries.
Fremont was led by Kyler DeKuiper with 93 passing yards and 23 rushing yards. Justin Dirheimer was the lead rusher for the Packers, tallying 84 yards.
Next week, Ludington will be home for the first time in 2021. The Orioles welcome the Sparta Spartans to town for a non-league battle. Fremont will remain at home, playing host to Big Rapids in both team’s CSAA Gold opener.
