The Mattawan Wildcats struggled early in the 2021 season. In the first six weeks, Mattawan secured just one victory, and it came as a result of their opponent forfeiting. In each of the past two weeks, the Wildcats have turned the corner. Mattawan won their second straight game, taking down Kalamazoo Central 29-6.
After a scoreless first quarter, Mattawan found the end zone in the second frame. Ryan Van Liere powered across the goal line from a yard out. Drew Marucci chipped in a two-point conversion. This gave the Wildcats an 8-0 lead at the break.
Blaine Rogers expanded Mattawan’s lead in the third quarter. Rogers found the end zone twice, on carries of 10 and 52 yards. Ahead 22-0, Carter Schuring made an impact on defense for Mattawan. He stepped in front of a Maroon Giants pass, racing seven yards for a score.
Kalamazoo Central would record a late-game touchdown, but it was not going to be enough. Blaine Rogers led Mattawan with 172 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 19 carries.
Next week, Mattawan will conclude their regular season against Battle Creek Central. Kalamazoo Central will square off against Portage Northern.
