by Hudson, OH – Starting the season off strong with a race to the finish, the Highland Hornets upset the Hudson Explorers 31 – 24. Putting up a good fight against the Hornets, the Explorers made their town proud in this season opener. However, unable to maintain their lead created in the first three quarters, Hudson puttered out as Casey Myser broke through the Hudson defense with a 26-yard-run followed by a 4-yard touchdown run to secure the Hornet’s victory.
As both teams struggled to find an offensive rhythm, the Hudson Explorers countered Highlands’s score of 3 by quickly responding as the Hornets committed an offside penalty. The Explorers took advantage of their better field position earning their kicker Bradley Masiella a chance to complete a 38-yard field goal, tying the score 3 – 3 at the end of the first quarter.
As the second quarter unfolded, Hudson quarterback Nathan Judy, orchestrated a strong drive down the field. With help from running backs Jack Dressler, Nick Innamorato, and Brennan Funyak, Hudson capitalized on Highland’s mistakes. Funyak capped off a strong drive with a 6-yard touchdown run, bringing the score to 7 – 3 in favor of Hudson. Highland, however, refused to end the second quarter at a disadvantage. With time running out, Highland quarterback Dylan Borla connected with Colton Foust for a one-yard touchdown. A successful extra point conversion tied the game at 10 – 10 with only 25 seconds left until halftime.
Coming out of the halftime break, Hudson’s offense continued to shine. Reno Ferri, Hudson’s explosive running back, made his mark in the third quarter with a phenomenal 30-yard touchdown run. This play gave Hudson a commanding 24 – 17 lead after another successful field goal from Brad Maseilla. On the defensive side, Hudson linebacker Nathaniel Coates showcased a standout performance, recording several critical tackles and holding back Highland’s offense. Hudson managed to intercept a Highland pass in the third quarter, further tightening their grip on the game. This interception resulted in an 18-yard return, providing Hudson with excellent field position.
Despite trailing 24 – 17 heading into the final quarter, Highland refused to back down. With six minutes left in the game, Highland’s Casey Myser sprinted for a 10-yard touchdown run, which tied the game at 24 – 24. The Hornets’ student section erupted in cheers, outmatching Hudson’s supporters in noise and energy. With only a minute left in regulation and the score tied at 24 – 24, Highland launched a last-ditch offensive drive. Myser continued his excellent performance with a 26-yard run that put the Hornets in scoring position. Following that play, Myser broke through the Hudson defense once again with a powerful 4-yard touchdown run. The extra point was converted successfully, making the score 31 – 24 with only a minute left on the clock.
Hudson desperately tried to respond, but Highland’s defense held firm, ensuring that their comeback victory was secure. They sacked Hudson quarterback Nathan Judy in the final minute. Judy, who struggled with interceptions throughout the game, saw two passes fall incomplete with 18 and 14 seconds remaining. With only four seconds left, Highland successfully sacked Judy again, effectively ending Hudson’s hopes for a last-second comeback.
The Hornets look to continue their victories against North Royalton while the Explorers prepare to bounce back against Hoover next week.
