The Hamilton Hawkeyes had a strong 2020 campaign, posting a 4-5 record and advancing to their first District Finals since 2012. They look ready to build on that momentum as the 2021 season got underway against Wayland this Friday. The Hawkeyes won their season opener tonight by a final count of 16-6.
Neither team scored in the first quarter of the ballgame. Three minutes into the second quarter, Hamilton finally got on the scoreboard. Quentin Sorens kept the football and ran two yards into the end zone for a score. An successful PAT attempt had Hamilton ahead 7-0.
In the closing seconds of the first half, Wayland got on the scoreboard. Ian Thompson slipped through the Hamilton defense and ran in a 20-yard touchdown. The Wildcats were unable to convert the PAT, meaning that they still trailed 7-6 as they headed to the locker room.
Much like in the opening quarter of the game, the opening quarter of the second half also saw no scoring plays. This would remain true until the last four minutes of the game. Hamilton was able to seal the victory with ten points in the closing minutes. The Hawkeyes’ defense recorded a safety, and Spencer VandenBrink broke free and zoomed to the endzone, a 55-yard touchdown run that sealed the win.
Next week, Hamilton will hit the road for a Thursday game at Benzie Central. Wayland will be at home on Thursday, as the Wildcats welcome in Coopersville.
