by Midview held the lead for most of the night, but North Ridgeville scored twice in the fourth quarter to come back for a 31-27 win.
Midview started the game with momentum when Joshua Schofield returned the opening kickoff 50 yards. The strong field position helped set up Midview’s offense, and Brennen “Mooks” Newton eventually rushed into the end zone for the first touchdown of the game. The extra point was good, giving Midview an early 7-0 lead.
North Ridgeville answered with a touchdown of its own to tie the game at 7-7. In the second quarter, Midview’s offense continued to make big plays. On a fourth-and-long situation, Newton connected with Robert Flachbart Jr. for a 45-yard completion. Newton later ran for another touchdown, helping Midview take control. By halftime, the Middies held a 20-13 lead.
The third quarter was scoreless as both defenses stepped up. Midview continued to make important defensive stops, but penalties began to pile up and became a problem for the Middies.
North Ridgeville made its move in the fourth quarter. Braden Harrison completed a 52-yard pass that helped move his team into scoring position. North Ridgeville scored shortly after, but Midview blocked the extra point to keep the Middies ahead 20-19.
Midview responded when Jace Wright broke free for a 65-yard touchdown run. The extra point gave Midview a 27-19 advantage.
North Ridgeville continued its comeback as Harrison connected with Matthew Flesher for a touchdown, cutting the deficit to 27-25. Later in the fourth quarter, Harrison found Mason Allison for a 20-yard touchdown, giving North Ridgeville a 31-27 lead.
Midview had one final chance to answer, but North Ridgeville recorded a sack with about one second remaining to end the game.
Final: North Ridgeville 31, Midview 27.
Players of the Game:
Midview: Brennen “Mooks” Newton — 3 rushing touchdowns, including an 18-yard score, and a key 45-yard completion.
North Ridgeville: Matthew Flesher — 7 receptions, 107 receiving yards, and 1 touchdown, including a key fourth-quarter score.
