The Mattawan Wildcats’ strong finish to their 2021 campaign continued on Friday night, as they wrapped up regular season play against Battle Creek Central. Hanging on to the #30 playoff spot in Division 3, they faced a Bearcats team that was ranked #31. It felt as if it were a playoff play-in matchup. Mattawan was ready to go, securing a 26-6 victory, boosting their playoff odds.
In the first quarter, Ryan Van Liere took to the air, tossing an 11-yard touchdown. Blaine Rogers added an 11-yard touchdown carry to give the Wildcats a 14-0 halftime lead.
Battle Creek Central scored in the third quarter on a 1-yard carry, trimming the deficit to eight. Over the final quarter, Mattawan extended their lead and sealed the win. The Wildcats scored twice, with Blaine Rogers returning to the end zone with a 3-yard carry.
Ryan Van Liere was 5/14 passing for 92 yards. Blaine Rogers added 120 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 30 carries. Ryan Kiesling paced the receivers with 63 yards.
Mattawan improves to 4-5 on the year with this victory. On Sunday, their hopes of a playoff berth should be confirmed. Battle Creek Central slides to 3-6 on the year, and their season will more than likely come to an end.
