The Crusaders began their 32nd trip to the playoffs on Friday night, as they welcomed Delton Kellogg for the first-ever matchup between the schools. An explosive start helped Muskegon Catholic Central advance to the district finals with a 54-6 victory.
In the opening quarter, the Crusaders found the end zone twice. Elliot Riegler got the team rolling with a 27-yard quarterback keeper on their first drive of the game. After a quick defensive stop, MCC got the football back. They wasted no time, as Joe Waller carried the football 19 yards across the goal line. A pair of two-point conversions gave the team a 16-0 advantage.
The second quarter saw more of the same, with the lead doubling in size. Elliot Riegler took to the air on their first scoring drive, pairing up with David Hill on a 40-yard touchdown pass. With ten seconds remaining before halftime, Joe Waller returned to the end zone on a 1-yard plunge. Again, MCC was able to convert a pair of two-point tries. The Crusaders took their 32-0 lead to the locker room.
Muskegon Catholic Central started the third quarter with the football, and the offense struck again. Sam Convertini found the end zone, carrying the football five yards across the goal line. Just forty-six seconds into the second half, the running clock went into effect in a 40-0 game.
Torren Mapes allowed the Panthers to prevent the shutout. He scored on a 5-yard run, bringing Delton within thirty-four points. Sam Convertini put the running clock back in effect with his 19-yard touchdown run in the closing seconds of the third quarter.
Tramel Caviness provided the only scoring play in the fourth quarter. He made his impact felt on defense, recovering a loose fumble in the end zone. This gave Muskegon Catholic Central their final score of the game.
Sam Convertini led the MCC rushing attack with 73 yards, while Joe Waller (51 yards) and Elliot Reigler (43 yards) added strong efforts.
With this victory, the Crusaders advance to the District Finals in Division 7. They will take on Ravenna, who held off North Muskegon 7-6. Muskegon Catholic Central will host.
