Game 1: Charleston Academy Knights 15 v 12 Millburn Academy Eagles
The final week of matches started with a crucial winner takes all match for a place in the final of the Highland Academy Community League – the Highland Bowl.
The match started with a nervy opening by the Knights, which the Eagles capitalised on with an early touchdown run to take a 6-0 lead. The Knights then changed the whole complexion of the match with two quick scores. Receiver Sam Blackhall scored on a run on a reverse play to tie the scores at 6-6. On the resumption of play, the Millburn offense stumbled, and their running back was tackled in their own end zone for a safety, to edge Charleston into the lead, 8-6. Charleston further extended their lead with a touchdown reception by center Fergus McIntyre from a short pass by quarterback Euan Crawford. A conversion by Blackhall took the score to 15-6, before Millburn hit back with another touchdown run to draw the scores to 15-12. Late in the game Charleston looked to have put the game away with a touchdown reception by receiver Craig McIntosh, but a penalty nullified the score. Instead, Charleston were forced to endure a late drive by Millburn, which finally ended after linebacker Ronan Melens forced a fumble which was recovered by the Charleston defence – his second forced fumble of the match. At the final whistle, Lewis Hilditch was given the Most Valuable Player award for a terrific overall performance on both offense and defense.
Game 2: Charleston Academy 35 v 26 Culloden Raptors
Photos © Scott MacDonald. Used with Permission.
After the intense battle of the first match, it took another exceptional effort for the Knights to overcome a very tough and physical challenge from the Raptors. In a high scoring affair, both offenses set a high tempo. Charleston opened the scoring with another touchdown reception by receiver Sam Blackhall. After a tying touchdown by the Raptors, the Knights regained the lead with yet another touchdown by Blackhall –his 13th in total for the season. The lead was extended with a touchdown by receiver Lewis Hilditch, and three touchdowns by running back Craig Robertson, in an exceptional individual performance. A couple of late consolation touchdowns for the Raptors narrowed the score, to a final victory for the Knights by 9 points. Most Valuable Player for the game was Euan Crawford, whose standout play on offense and defense has been a key reason for the Knights success all season.
As a result of the week 4 results, the Charleston Knights finish the season with an overall record of 6-2, and have deservedly earned their place in the second Highland Bowl.
Mr Donald MacLeod, Biology Department