In a climatic Homecoming football game altered by the effects of Hurricane Helene, the Center Hill Mustangs triumphed over the Hernando Tigers 22-21 in a tightly matched game that showcased both teams’ resilience despite the challenging weather conditions.
The Homecoming game is usually one of most attended games of the year for the Hernando Tigers. Many people not only come out to watch their favorite team, maybe even their sons, play good old American football. The Homecoming court is usually held during halftime during that nights football game. Due to the severe weather, the court was held in the Hernando Tigers’ gymnasium prior to kickoff instead of during the traditional halftime ceremony. Despite the rain and wind, the event was a success, with Sophia Mashke being crowned Homecoming Queen.
The hurricane caused the rain to pour across the midsouth with an inch of rain falling consistently throughout the game. Wind speeds were around 14 miles per hour with the occasional gust up to 30 miles per hour. The temperature was a cool 65 degrees fahrenheit throughout the game. Light fog set around and, on the field, causing hindered visibility. These weather conditions caused multiple fumbles and dropped passes, inaccurate throws, and a lot of missed tackles. Especially in the fourth quarter.
The Mustangs started off the game with a 15-yard quarterback drive. Putting them 6-0 against the Tigers. Noah Elam intercepted a pass from Center Hills quarterback returning it for a 50-yard pick 6 putting the score 6-6. The extra point was good ending the quarter with a score of 7-6. In the second quarter, Saxtin Douglas added to the Tigers score with a three-yard touchdown run making it 14-6 midway through the period. However, the Mustangs responded with a 30-yard touchdown and a successful 2-point conversion which tied the score 14-14 at half time.
The Tigers started the third quarter off strong with a long kickoff return, and a passing touchdown bringing the score to 21-14. Mustangs responded with their own passing touch down bringing the score 21-21. In the end the tigers came up short losing to Center Hill 22-21.
Despite all the hardships felt during this tough battle with the Mustangs, the Tigers powered through the fog, rain, gust, and a slippery field. The Tigers showed the Mustangs they would not go down without a fight at the Homecoming game. Congratulations to both teams for a wonderful game.
