The 2021 season kicked off for both Muskegon Catholic Central and North Muskegon on Friday night, as the Crusaders hosted the Norsemen. North Muskegon raced out to an early lead, but MCC’s ability to hold strong and pitch a shutout over the final three quarters led to a 27-13 victory for the Crusaders.
On their opening drive of the season, James Young led a touchdown march for North Muskegon. Young found Bo Nedeau for a 30-yard touchdown pass that gave the Norsemen a 6-0 lead. It was short lived, as MCC rallied for a score. Joe Waller plunged across the goal line for a 1-yard score that gave the Crusaders a 7-6 lead. North Muskegon would jump back in front at the end of the first quarter with Young’s second touchdown strike, this time a 29-yard pass.
There was only one scoring play in the second quarter, a 6-yard touchdown run by David Hill. This allowed the Crusaders to tie the game at 13-13 heading into the locker room.
Muskegon Catholic Central controlled the second half, scoring the two lone touchdowns. Elliot Riegler pushed the Crusaders in front with a 39-yard touchdown run. With five minutes to go, Joe Waller broke off a 17-yard run that sealed the victory.
Joe Waller finished the game with 17 carries for 122 yards and two touchdowns. Elliot Riegler turned 11 carries into 78 yards and a touchdown. James Young was the catalyst of the North Muskegon offense, finishing the game 13/24 passing for 145 yards and two touchdowns.
Next week, Muskegon Catholic will hit the road to take on West Catholic. North Muskegon will commence WMC play with their home date against Montague.
