The Cougar Football team visited the Episcopal Knights Friday night and came away with a heart-stopping 35-32 victory. Twice trailing by eleven points, Northland used it's usual formula of outstanding special teams, Black Swarm defense, and explosive offensive capabilities to claw their way back and grab a big road win over a very talented Episcopal Knights team.
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Photo courtesy Peggy Townsend |
For almost a quarter, both teams took turns shaking the rust off their offenses. Near the end of the quarter, however, Knights QB Theriot put up the first points and Episcopal led 6-0 after a failed extra point. Jon Martin then returned the ensuing kickoff 97 yards for a TD and Kyle Serres hit the first of 4 extra points. Finding themselves behind 18-7 with 50 seconds left in the half, the Cougars special teams struck again when Aaron Butler recovered a fumbled punt attempt in the end zone to bring the score to 18-14 at the half.
The second half began with the Knights again getting out to an 11 point lead. The Cougars responded with 2 touchdowns by Matt Krob to take their first lead since early in the game. It was to be short-lived as the Knights responded with a score of their own to make it 32-28. With 5:28 left on the clock, QB Jeff Abt went to work, picking up a couple quick first downs. Then with just 3 minutes left, Abt threw a perfect 34 strike to Michael Ellisor for the game winning score. The Black Swarm easily held the Knights without a first down on the following possession and got the ball back with 1:39 remaining. Matt Krob picked up a first down and the Cougars bled the clock dry for a thrilling season opening win.
The Episcopal Knights led in most statistical categories except the one that counted the most. They have a good season to look forward to as they showed that they are a classy and very talented team with good size and speed.
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