Dutchmen make a team comeback on the road against the Comets
Blake Sloan was one of the second-string players who started at tailback Friday night and had an outstanding game for the Dutch, contributing two touchdowns and leading with 37 carries for 227 yards rushing and four solo tackles. Photo courtesy of John Osadchuk.
by Marsha Chartrand
“When adversity hit our team this week, our players hit back,” said varsity Coach Ben Pack of his Manchester team. “If coming off a setback last week against Michigan Center wasn’t enough, the injury bug as well as disciplinary procedures allowed other players to see action versus Hanover Horton.“
But, he added, the strength is in the team. And that was especially true last Friday as the Dutch hit the long road to take on the Comets on their home field.
The Comets started off scoring with a three-yard run for a touchdown with 4:58 remaining in the first quarter. The two-point conversion run was unsuccessful, and the Dutch responded with a touchdown of their own by Blake Sloan, with a seven-yard run and a PAT by Derek Huff. The score at the end of the first quarter was 7–6.
In the second quarter, Manchester picked up three more touchdowns, one on a five-yard run from Gunner Carson and the next two on completed passes from Kannon Duffing to Jaxon McGuigan (eight yards and 38 yards, respectively). Two of the TDs had successful PATs from Huff. Hanover also had a high-scoring quarter, with a 52-yard touchdown and a late 24-yard run, both by Graham Gunper; the half ended with Manchester leading 27–20.
The third quarter was also filled with activity, as Hanover intercepted a Duffing pass intended for Luke Blumenauer and turned it over for a touchdown complete with a two-point conversion to bring Hanover into the lead for a short time. But with 4:32 remaining in the third quarter, Sloan ran another TD for 14 yards to bring the score to 33–28, which held through the scoreless fourth quarter for a Manchester victory.
“Sloan started at tailback and turned in a highlight night carrying the ball 37 times for 227 yards and two touchdowns,“ Pack said, describing the contributions from the backup players. “Jacob Smith filled in at wide receiver and blocked exceptional on run plays and ran routes like he was doing it all season. Sophomore Drake Neff got his first start of the season at inside linebacker and recorded numerous big plays. Drake recorded three tackles and his relentless pursuit forced Hanover’s ball carrier towards teammates to make the tackle. Drake also broke up multiple passes. Derek Huff stepped in at kicker minutes before the game and made three extra point kicks and did an excellent job kicking off, putting Hanover Horton’s returner and all-state track sprinter on hold. It is pleasing to see players that have been in backup roles step in and compete.
“In addition, minutes before the game when Nick Laurain was warming up as a kicker, his foot got stuck in a muddy spot and he injured his hip. The injury was significant and prevented him from walking, let alone running. This is what caused Huff into the kicking role, and Luke Blumenauer into the free safety spot. With minimal preparation, Luke stepped in and played defensive back exceptionally well. His versatility and sports IQ allowed him to adapt and compete the entire game.
“This tells me the practice procedures are working, and players are engaged; working for their opportunity to play.“
Duffing and McGuigan continued their stellar season passing and receiving, hooking up six times and scoring two touchdowns. McGuigan also led the team in tackles and had one interception. Jeff Loomis and Sloan followed up with five tackles each.
Pack concluded, “Our kids showed resilience day after day this past week. This shows their character and toughness. We are fortunate to have a group of guys with fortitude.“
This Friday’s game will be at home against Grass Lake, 7pm. Senior Night activities will be held — watch for announcements this week. Go, Dutch!
The Dutch celebrate their victory following the 33–28 win over Hanover Horton. Photo courtesy of John Osadchuk.
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