The Grand Rapids Catholic Central Cougars and South Christian Sailors met on Friday with a share of the OK Gold title on the line. In a low-scoring affair, GRCC was able to snag a 21-12 victory.
In the first quarter, Kellen Russell-Dixon got things started with a 1-yard touchdown plunge. South Christian would respond on their next drive, as Carson Vis used his legs for a 24-yard scamper. A blocked extra point left the Sailors down a point, 7-6.
Neither team would find the scoring column in the second quarter, leaving the score the same heading into halftime. Five minutes into the second half, GRCC was able to extend their lead. Russell-Dixon broke free for a 49-yard touchdown sprint, outlasting several Sailors’ defenders.
Once again, the Sailors were able to respond. It was Vis again, using his legs for a 1-yard keeper. Another failed conversion attempt left the score at 14-12 in favor of the Cougars.
With 7:50 to play, GRCC got some insurance scoring. Russell-Dixon completed his hat trick with a 1-yard touchdown carry. He finished the night with 32 carries for 330 yards and three scores.
Grand Rapids Catholic Central has now won seven straight games to move to 7-1 on the year. They conclude their regular season next week against Ottawa Hills, a contest in which they can outright clinch the OK Gold crown. South Christian slides to 6-2 with this defeat. The Sailors will face Wayland in their regular season finale.
