The Forest Hills Eastern Hawks hit the road on Friday night, as they set off to Kenowa Hills for a game with the Knights. FHE jumped out to a big lead, allowing the Hawks to capture a 28-13 victory.
In the first quarter, Ashton Thompson scored the lone touchdown. Brayden Stratbucker handed Thompson the football, and he raced for a 19-yard score. Clune VanAndel‘s kick on the point after was blocked, leaving the score at 6-0 in favor of the Hawks.
Midway through the second frame, Kenowa Hills responded with their first score of the evening. Mason Viveros, fresh off a four-touchdown performance last week, found the end zone. He carried the ball 12 yards to the end zone. Diego Rivera booted the extra point, and as it sailed through the uprights, Kenowa Hills jumped ahead 7-6.
FHE would start their ensuing possession on the forty yard line after a strong return. Bryson Kuzdzal would cap off the fast drive, scoring on the second play on a 3-yard carry. Drew Patten tossed a successful conversion pass to Jake Heemstra. On their next possession, FHE found the end zone again. This time, Stratbucker connected with Thompson on 64-yard score. The Hawks took their 21-7 advantage into the locker room.
Kenowa Hills would respond back, scoring the lone touchdown of the third quarter. Mason Viveros returned to the end zone, continuing his impressive two-game run as the Knights’ feature ball carrier. His 2-yard plunge brought the Knights back within eight, as they failed the conversion.
With seven minutes to play, Bryson Kuzsdzal provided some valuable insurance for the Hawks. His 72-yard dash to pay dirt gave the Hawks a fifteen-point lead that they would not squander.
Brayden Stratbucker finished 6/17 passing for FHE, tallying 115 yards. Ashton Thompson led the way with 64 yards receiving. Bryson Kuzdzal was the top offensive performer for FHE with 199 rushing yards on 21 carries, along with a 14-yard reception.
Kenowa Hills saw Andrew Bradley finish 11/26 passing for 221 yards. Nolan Thayer hauled in four passes for 122 yards. Mason Viveros’ 67 yards on 16 carries was a Knights’ game-high.
Forest Hills Eastern is now 4-4 on the season. The Hawks will look to make their final charge for a playoff spot in Week 9, as they square off against Wayland. Kenowa Hills, now 3-5, finishes their year with a showdown against Grand Rapids Catholic Central.
