LocalSportsJournal.com
After falling behind 21-0 in the first quarter, the Muskegon Heights football team rallied for a 32-29 victory over host Newaygo Thursday night.
The Tigers struggled early after losing senior fullback Rashon Rankin to an injury. The Lions took advantage and scored three touchdowns, including two by quarterback Jack Boyd.
Newaygo led 21-12 at halftime, but Muskegon Heights refused to die. They scored three touchdowns in the third quarter, compared to one for Newaygo, to pull out the exciting victory.
One came on a nine-yard scoring run by Jalen Harris. The other two were touchdown throws by quarterback Anthony Gordon – 66 yards to Kevin Jackson and 49 yards to Ja Vonte Kendrick.
The Muskegon Heights defense stood strong in the fourth quarter, stopping two Newaygo drives on downs to seal the victory. The effort was aided by two broken up passes by free safety Devon Kitchen.
“I knew these guys could do it,” said Tiger Coach Tommy Elliott. “We battled and battled and finally were victorious at the end of the night.”
One of the unsung heroes was backup fullback Jujuante Trotter, who took over for the injured Rankin and scored two touchdowns in the first half to keep the Tigers in the game.
Matt Moore led Newaygo with 17 carries for 144 yards. Tristen Mumper added 27 carries for 139 yards.
Boyd threw for 44 yards and one touchdown.
