The Muskegon Catholic Crusaders continued to extend their tradition of tough scheduling with a non-conference bout against defending Division 8 State Champion Centreville. In an absolute thriller, MCC won the ballgame 24-16.
In the first quarter, the Crusaders scored first. Joe Waller carried the football across the goal line from two yards out. MCC added the two-point try to take an 8-0 lead. Neither team scored in the second quarter, allowing the Crusaders to take that advantage into the locker room.
Midway through the third quarter, the Crusaders extended their lead. Elliot Riegler found David Hill for a 30-yard touchdown. Another successful conversion put MCC ahead 16-0.
Just eleven seconds into the fourth quarter, Centreville finally got on the scoreboard. Mason Lemings used his legs, powering across the goal line from three yards out. The Bulldogs secured the conversion, trimming the lead in half.
With 1:48 to play, Centreville evened the score. Again it was Lemings, this time from seven yards out. The successful two-point try brought the score to 16-16.
Muskegon Catholic Central took over and began marching down the field. With just six seconds to play, Riegler tossed it up to Sam Convertini, who was able to secure the 26-yard touchdown. This enabled Muskegon Catholic Central to capture the victory.
Reigler’s touchdown was just his sixth completion of the day, bringing his tally to 113 yards and two scores. Elliot Reigler and David Hill led MCC on the ground with 44 yards each. Sam Convertini, the hero of the game, led the receivers with 120 yards on five catches. Sam Kartes paced the defense with 10 tackles.
Centreville quarterback Tyler Swanwick finished 4/10 with 57 passing yards. Swanwick (65 yards) and Gavin Bunning (77) paced the rushing attack. Bunning and Lemings each had 20 receiving yards for the Bulldogs.
Muskegon Catholic Central improves to 7-1 on the season with this victory. They will conclude their regular season against Oakridge next Friday. Centreville, now 6-2, will face Buchanan in Week 9 before beginning their title defense.
