The Bellwood-Antis junior high football team played the undefeated Chestnut Ridge junior high to a scoreless tie at Bellwood on Thursday evening, for all but the final 17 seconds. Ridge’s Max Kauert slipped in from six yard out for the only touchdown of the game to keep the Little Lions undefeated at 7-0.
The Little Blue Devils, who had won two and tied another in their previous three ballgames, after losing the first three in a row, fall to 2-4-1, with games left against Moshannon Valley on Oct. 28 and Bishop Guilfoyle on Nov. 4.
There was very little offense by either team throughout the game, thanks to two stout defenses and the muddy field and cold, drizzly weather conditions.
Chestnut Ridge benefited from all the close plays and mistakes committed by both sides during the game. Bellwood-Antis had what seemed like a sure touchdown pass dropped. While on the Lions’ scoring drive late in the game, the Chestnut Ridge punter dropped the ball on fourth down, picked the ball up and was able to run for a first down that kept the drive alive for what proved to be the eventual game-winning TD.
“We played well on defense,” said Bellwood-Antis coach Charlie Burch. “However, we had trouble moving the ball with the wet, muddy conditions. Chestnut Ridge also had some good talented football players in the middle of their defense. After the first quarter, I thought the team that scored first would win the game. Our kids gave a great effort, it just wasn’t there for us. We have two games left and we have to get ready for them and try to finish strong.”
Bellwood-Antis travels to Houtzdale for the junior high game next Thursday at 6 p.m.
