Masuk Free Press

When two heavyweights collide, an interesting and exciting event is always expected by spectators. Despite the 28-14 final score in favor of Brookfield, Masuk gave a valiant effort, as their seniors especially let it all out on the field on their night. It is no surprise that this game did not disappoint, as Brookfields offense seemed to be no different than usual on Friday night, throwing up 28 points. This exciting senior class has continued to showcase their strength as a team, as Masuk head coach Steve Christy emphasized pregame, “It’s just amazing the way they’ve come together and accepted everything that we’ve thrown at them.” 

This game started off with everything pumping. From the student section to the sidelines to even the opposing fans opposite of Masuk’s spectators, this game was highly anticipated. Spectators began to realize however, that Brookfield was not your average highschool football team, as the score into halftime was tied at 14-14. How did we get there though? 

Masuk started off on defense, and after forcing a punt out of Brookfield, Masuk trudged down the field and executed the first touchdown of the night, via a 3 yard rush by Gavin Walker. The Panthers were now up 7-0 after the routine extra point bolted through the uprights. Quarter 2 begins with a Brookfield rushing touchdown. After multiple drives from both teams with no success, it took Masuk to intercept Brookfield on defense, getting the ball back. Masuk took the opportunity, as Aaron Champagne connected with Shane Walker for 65 yards, accounting for the second and last score of the night for the Panthers. Later in the quarter, Brookfield scored once more, also getting the 2 point conversion, tying the game up as halftime approached, at 14 a piece. 

The next half began with Brookfield grabbing the lead after an unfortunate second half kickoff fumble by Masuk. They capitalized, scoring, going up 21-14. Some hiccups on Masuk’s offensive end prohibited any more offensive production. There was still hope though, as Masuk’s defense was giving one last stand, refusing to give up. Masuk did receive the ball back, but they were unable to convert, as Brookfield scored once again, leading the eventual final score to 28-14. Brookfield then kneeled out the clock in victory formation, and escaped Benedict Field with a win against the Masuk Panthers, truly being a senior night spoiler. 

Although Masuk lost this game, they look to bounce back against their cross town rivals, Newtown, in what should be a thrilling regular season finale. There is still a shot at the gold. as Masuk still has their sights set on a state championship. However, their star quarterback, Aaron Champagne, seemed to be injured following a huge 3rd down sack. This game was not pretty, but seniors Max Viglione and Sebastion Nicholas would not mind continuing the quest and grabbing a state championship. 

“It would be really nice because we’ve been working for it for 4 years now, and every year we always fall one round short, so it would be really nice if we got a state championship,” said Nicholas. 

“It’d be nice to go out with a bang,” said Viglione.

Losses happen all the time in sports, as no team is perfect. All one can expect is for the Panther’s to bounce back on Thanksgiving Eve against Newtown, in what should be another nail-biter, keeping fans in their seats till the clock strikes 0:00.