South Christian, after suffering two tough defeats, started OK Gold play in another challenging spot against Zeeland West out on the lakeshore. In a defensive battle, the Dux were able to walk away with a 12-6 victory to move to 3-1 on the season.
After a scoreless first quarter, Zeeland West found the end zone. Jonah Leslie got the Dux started with a two-yard touchdown plunge with 2:30 to play before the half. A failed two-point conversion left them ahead 6-0 at the break.
South Christian would respond late in the third quarter, with a dynamic passing play from Austin Burgess. He found Easton Raak, who raced 55 yards to the end zone. A botched snap on the extra point left the teams tied at six.
With just under seven minutes to play, South Christian had the chance to take the lead. They marched all the way down to the Zeeland West one yard line, but they were unable to score. The Dux defense stonewalled the Sailors just inches from a tying touchdown.
What ensued next was vintage Zeeland West. The Dux marched 99 yards down the field, taking up over six minutes, and with 23 seconds to play, Brandon Holman ran the final 8 yards for the go-ahead score. South Christian would have a chance to respond with two heaves toward the end zone, but they both ultimately fell short.
With this theatrical victory, the Dux improve to 3-1. Next week, the Bird Bowl is on the calendar, as they face rival Zeeland East. South Christian falls to 1-3, their worst start since 2015. They have a must-win game next Friday when they face the Wyoming Wolves.
