HENDERSON, Ky. — On a night that featured a two-hour weather delay, a defensive slugfest, and the pageantry of Homecoming, the Henderson County Colonels (2-2) gave their fans something to celebrate with a hard-fought 7-6 win over the Daviess County Panthers (2-3) Friday at Colonel Stadium.
First Half: Colonels Strike First
After waiting through storms to get underway, both teams struggled to find rhythm early. But Henderson County settled in behind senior running back Jack Ryan Reusch, on 11 carries for 82 yards, and quarterback Brody Belt, who kept the offense steady.
The Colonels broke through in the second quarter, punching in their only touchdown of the night courtesy of Belt, taking a 7-0 lead after the extra point. The Henderson defense controlled much of the first half, limiting Daviess County’s big-play chances and keeping the Homecoming crowd energized.
Second Half: Panthers Close the Gap
Daviess County came out stronger after halftime, riding the legs of Garrison Barker (14 carries, 99 yards). The Panthers finally cracked the end zone in the third quarter, but couldn’t capitalize on a two-point conversion that proved costly, leaving the Colonels ahead 7-6.
From that point forward, Henderson’s defense set the tone. The Colonels forced two turnovers, came up with multiple stops on third down, and denied the Panthers’ final push in the fourth quarter, a possible game-winning field goal try, sealing the Homecoming victory.
By the Numbers
- Henderson County
- Rushing: 125 yards
- Passing: 40 yards
- Total offense: 165 yards
- First downs: 12
- 3rd down: 3-for-10
- Turnovers: 1
- Daviess County
- Rushing: 171 yards
- Passing: 55 yards
- Total offense: 226 yards
- First downs: 14
- 3rd down: 5-for-12
- Turnovers: 2
A Homecoming to Remember
The long lightning delay, a one-point margin, and a charged Homecoming crowd made the win even sweeter for Henderson County.
The victory lifts Henderson County to 2-2 on the season. The Colonels will be on the road Friday, September 26th taking on Central Hardin (0-5) looking to carry their Homecoming momentum forward. Kickoff from Cecilia is set for 8pm ET, 7pm local time.
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