Photo Credit: Lou Murray
A pair of longtime rivals met at the CAT on Friday night for another epic chapter in their history. East Grand Rapids paid a visit to Grand Rapids Catholic Central, with both teams riding positive momentum after the past few weeks. This game was competitive from the opening gun, ultimately with Grand Rapids Catholic Central escaping with a narrow 10-7 win.
This game was a real spotlight for both defenses. In the first half, neither team was able to muster up a touchdown. East Grand Rapids started the second half scoring off with a 9-yard touchdown run from Zach Caswell. A successful boot from Will Klein on the PAT kick gave Coach Josh Shattuck’s Pioneers a 7-0 edge.
On their ensuing drive, GRCC marched down the field. They ultimately reached the EGR 8 yard line when things stalled. On fourth down, they elected to send out Noah Zainea for a 25-yard kick. This field goal try sailed through the uprights, bringing the Cougars within four.
With just ninety seconds to play, the GRCC offense provided it’s biggest play of the game. Odin Spencer found Owen Tietema on a 14-yard touchdown that pushed the Cougars ahead for the first time in the contest, 10-7.
East Grand Rapids would have one chance to answer back, and they quickly moved downfield. On the game’s final play, the Pioneers heaved the ball into the end zone. The Hail Mary was intercepted by Keith Jandernoa, and the senior sealed the win for GRCC.
With the victory, GR Catholic Central is now 4-0. They will continue OK Black play next week against Middleville. East Grand Rapids slides to 2-2 on the season. Their Week 5 matchup is also challenging, as they face Northview.
