MINERSVILLE — Schuylkill Haven’s powerful rushing attack proved too much for Minersville’s defense as the Hurricanes defeated the Battlin’ Miners, 42-29, in a high-scoring contest at Veterans Memorial Stadium.
Both defenses controlled the opening quarter, keeping the game scoreless heading into the second period.
The offenses came alive in the second quarter, beginning with Schuylkill Haven’s Logan Goad scoring on a 4-yard touchdown run with 6:17 remaining in the first half. The extra point gave the Hurricanes a 7-0 lead.
Minersville responded when Derek Derenzo broke free for a 21-yard touchdown run, tying the game at 7-7.
In the final minute of the first half, Chase Yoder hauled in a 15-yard touchdown reception to put Schuylkill Haven back in front, 14-7.
The Battlin’ Miners answered just before halftime when Jordan Bowers connected on a 40-yard field goal, cutting the Hurricanes’ lead to 14-10 at the break.
Schuylkill Haven’s defense held Minersville scoreless in the third quarter, while the Hurricanes extended their lead. Yoder caught his second touchdown pass of the game with six minutes remaining in the period, giving Schuylkill Haven a 21-10 advantage heading into the fourth quarter.
The final quarter featured an offensive explosion, with both teams combining for 40 points.
Schuylkill Haven running back Colton Reber started the fourth-quarter scoring with a 14-yard touchdown run at the 9:28 mark, extending the Hurricanes’ lead to 28-10.
Minersville quickly energized the home crowd when Derenzo returned the ensuing kickoff for a touchdown, cutting the deficit to 28-17.
Reber answered with a 44-yard touchdown run, his second score of the game, pushing Schuylkill Haven’s advantage to 35-17.
The Battlin’ Miners refused to go away. Derenzo scored his second rushing touchdown on a 15-yard run, but the two-point conversion attempt failed, leaving Minersville trailing 35-23.
Schuylkill Haven continued to rely on its dominant ground attack as Reber found the end zone for the third time, extending the Hurricanes’ lead to 42-23.
Minersville capped the scoring with a touchdown by Jordan Bowers, bringing the final score to 42-29.
Despite Minersville’s determined effort, Schuylkill Haven’s rushing attack, led by Reber’s three touchdowns, proved to be the difference in the Hurricanes’ victory.
Schuylkill Haven (5-4) returns home next week to face Marian Catholic (4-5).
Minersville (2-7) will take on Nativity (1-8) in the annual Battle of the Backyard rivalry game.
| Team |
1st |
2nd |
3rd |
4th |
Final |
| Schuylkill Haven |
0 |
14 |
7 |
21 |
42 |
| Minersville |
0 |
10 |
0 |
19 |
29 |
