The Westfield Junior Varsity football team found itself in dire straits, on the ropes, between a rock and a hard place (and not the good kind of Rock), down….but DEFINITELY not out. The Rocks extended their season and HCC unbreakable streak to 5-0 with an amazing overtime victory over the Royals of HSE, 23-20.
The JV Rocks defense played an incredible game which included causing 6 total turn overs, two by junior corner back Christopher Zolto, and two by junior defensive end Elisha Lennon. With the leadership and outstanding effort of these two players, the Rocks held the Royals scoreless in the first half. The shut-out in the first half was even more amazing because it included two goal line stands, one aided by a big tackle by Lennon, and the other at the final play of the half as Zolto broke up a pass in the end zone as the clock ran out. The Rocks stood strong in the second half led by the consistent play of Junior Zack Jankowski, but did allow two touchdowns and a field goal.
The JV Rocks offense was able to move the ball around during most of the game, but found that it was only able to score 3 points for well over 3 and a half quarters of play. Six turnovers by the Rocks buried many promising drives. Late in the 4th quarter with only 3 minutes left in the game, the Rocks found themselves down 17-3 with the ball after the defense caused yet another turnover. The resolve, grit, and unbreakable spirit of the Rocks JV team shone through during the most exciting 3 minutes of the season. The Rocks were able to drive the ball down the field with the help of sophomore quarterback Cam Nance and junior running back Mike Brown. Tackles Matt Robinson and Chad Reeh provided room for Brown to barrel down the field and set up the eventual first touchdown from Nance to junior wide receiver Josué Gonzalez. The point after failed, but the Rocks still had life, down by 8 points with around a minute remaining and the fate of their undefeated season resting on the big toe of freshman kicker Alex Bales. Bales did not disappoint, kicking a “selfie” (onside kick to himself) and recovering with a minute left in the game. The Rocks responded to driving 50 yards and scoring on a Brown diving run from 10 yards out. Needing a two point conversion to tie the game, the Rocks again called upon Brown and Robinson to lead the way for a sweep by Nance. Nance squeaked in by the skin of his teeth and the game once seemingly beaten Rocks had clawed their way back even with the Royals.
During overtime both teams have an opportunity to possess the ball, and the Rocks defense was up first. They limited the Royals to only a field goal and giving the entire home sidelines a huge shot of confidence and energy. The offense took the field for their shot at overtime with a swagger and confidence that made it appear that the game was already decided in their favor. On the first play of the overtime for the Rocks Offense, Nance handed off to Brown who ran towards Robinson’s side of the line. Brown was engulfed by multiple Royal defenders but miraculously powered through their tackle attempts and scored a 10 yard touchdown, winning the game for the Rocks. The sidelines erupted with hugs and chest bumps and a confidence that this team could accomplish anything.
The JV Rocks football team with attempt to continue their streak on Saturday September 26th, at Brownsburg High School at 10 a.m.
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