The Manistee Chippewas and Ludington Orioles hold one of the most underrated rivalries in the area. They played the latest chapter on Friday night, and the Chippewas were able to emerge with a 41-12 win.
In the opening frame, Ludington struck first. Stephen Weinert powered across the goal line from four yards out to give the Orioles a 6-0 lead. Manistee would respond six minutes later with an 11-yard touchdown run from Connor Beaudrie. As the first quarter came to an end, Ludington regained the lead on a 36-yard touchdown pass from Trey Forfinski to Aidan Gilchrist. Two failed conversions left the Orioles ahead by a tally of 12-7.
In the final three quarters, Manistee went on a 34-0 scoring run to run away with this ball game. They scored twice in the second quarter. First, Jeff Huber used his legs, and the signal-caller reeled off a 35-yard touchdown run. Connor Beaudrie gave the Chippewas a 20-12 halftime lead after his 20-yard touchdown run.
In the second half, Beaudrie added two more touchdown runs to his tally. He had a 6-yard run in the third quarter, and a 35-yard score in the fourth. Trevor Spencer capped off the scoring with a 16-yard run with 2:30 to play.
Manistee outgained Ludington 342-145 in this game. The biggest difference was felt on the ground, as Manistee outran Ludington to the tune of a 273-89 yardage difference. Connor Beaudrie turned 14 carries into 119 yards and four touchdowns. Trevor Spencer added 7 carries for 64 yards. Jeff Huber, who was 5/7 passing for 69 yards, added 59 rushing yards to his tally on 19 carries.
Trey Forfinski was 3/11 in this defeat, passing for only 56 yards and tossing two interceptions. Forfinski did lead the rushing attack with 46 yards. Stephen Weinert added 29 yards for the Orioles.
Next week, Manistee (2-1) will take on Muskegon Heights (3-0). Ludington (1-2) will take on Muskegon Catholic Central (2-1).
