On Monday evening, the North Cougars 7th grade A team looked to wrap up their season; playing a third place playoff game against the Hawks from Heritage Middle School. It was a beautiful fall evening and the crowd for both sides was in for a treat!

After the kickoff, both teams were looking to find an edge and adjust based off of having just played each other last week too. And it was the Hawks who struck first as they found an open receiver over the top who made the grab, found the end zone, and put Heritage on top 6-0. But still in the first quarter, the Cougars were able to drive down the field and capped off the possession with QB Nolan Wright finding receiver Lucas Cuberos for a terrific TD catch. Cuberos also added the 2 point kick, putting North in front by a score of 8-6. In the second quarter, North once again was able to push the ball down the field and found the end zone on a run from half back Kotaro Matsumoto; putting the Cougars up 14-6 nearing the half. And as the Cougar defense dug in, the Hawks found it harder to move the ball... and North ended their possession by forcing a fumble that was recovered by Jackson Dunstan to secure the lead at the break.

The third quarter passed by quickly without either team finding a way to get past the other; and this playoff game was destined for an exciting finish in the 4th. Once again, the Hawks were able to exploit the deep ball for another long TD pass over the top. However, a blocked PAT kick left North on top 14-12. And as North worked the clock and methodically moved the ball downfield, it was once again Matsumoto who dodged through the Hawk defense to score and push the North lead to 20-12. With the clock winding down, the Hawks made a desperate attempt to find the potential score, but could not get it done. At the buzzer, the Cougars were able to celebrate a WIN to end their season and claim the third place district finish!

North would like to acknowledge all of their family, friends, and fans from this season for their energy and support during the games. It definitely helps fuel the fire and ignites the play on the field, so thank you once again!

UP NEXT...
Basketball and Wrestling!