The Poplarville Hornets went on a mission Friday night and upended St. Stanislaus 47-46 in overtime. The win ended a 17 game regular season winning streak held by St. Stanislaus.
The Rockachaws were also ranked #1 in 4A according to the latest AP poll released by the Clarion Ledger last week. None of that mattered to the 6th ranked Hornets as they battled 4 quarters plus to achieve a historical and memorable victory.
St. Stanislaus came into the game with the most passing yards in the nation according to maxpreps.com. The Hornet defense got after the quarterback with relentless effort and forced punts on 50% of Stanislaus’ possessions. We would talley a total of 7 sacks on the night. Jake Smith and Blake Mata had 2 each, while Brandon McBride, Tyler Fricke and Jamerrick Waller had 1 a piece. Anthony Martin collected the only turnover of the night with an interception. Malik Lucas turned in a spectacular performance, rushing for a season high 285 yards on 20 carries and 4 touchdowns. The Hornet offense totaled 469 yards on the night. Anthony Martin and Sye Blossman combined for 77 yards on 13 carries and fullback Jesse Pernell had 57 yards. Nick Kirschbaum proved to be the difference maker totaling 10 points, none more important than the last extra point that was successful in overtime. Devin Bonner blocked the St. Stanislaus PAT to set up the Hornets’ opportunity to win it in overtime. WIth the win, the Hornets take possession of first place in 8-4A and control their own destiny.
With a win Friday night, the Hornets could win a District Championship for the first time since 1995. Join us Friday as we celebrate Senior Night at Hornet Field and possibly A Division 8-4A crown. Go Hornets!
