Twas’ a hot, humid night at Mount St Mary High School for the 1st football game of the season! The Eagles won this matchup last year, but the coaching staff has been completely flipped, and they came into this game without 3 of their starters (who play both sides of the ball). With the absence of Jessin Hardin, Gunner Carthel, and Kevin Trillo, the Eagles had a lot to try and overcome to catch a win on opening night.
On the opening drive, new QB Gunnar Holder and the offense started with the ball in their hands. The drive stalled quickly though, resulting in a punt. This was a common trend for the first quarter, as neither offense could get anything going all quarter long. It came to an end with the score tied 0-0.
For the second quarter, it was more of the same for the first few minutes. Finally, the lid cracked and Holder unwinded a 56-yard touchdown to senior Weston Smith. A few drives followed with nothing special happening. With just 1:06 remaining in the quarter, the Rockets led a touchdown drive and capped it off with the 2-point. At halftime, it was 8-7.
The Eagles got the ball immediately on the 1-yard line following an MSM mess-up, but this would be the last time they scored. The Rockets took the lead with a touchdown of their own soon after. Headed into the 4th 16-15, the game looked like it would come down to the wire. That was until something clicked for the Rockets offense, and they rattled off a 25-point 4th quarter. Hennessey lost opening night 41-15. They play Crossings Christian next week in the home opener. Story by Taylor Ladwig, photos by Jude Hestand.
