The Basics
Score: MNU 14 - Baker 20
Record: MNU (8-1, 4-1), BU (8-1, 4-1)
Location: ODAC - Olathe, Kan.
OLATHE, Kan. – MNU's perfect season came to a tough halt as Baker pulled off a narrow 20-14 victory on Saturday. The game was a defensive battle, and Baker came up with a crucial turnover late in the 4th to seal the game.
The Pioneers struck early, capitalizing on a Baker fumbled punt when Elijah McFadden recovered it in the end zone for a touchdown. Baker quickly responded, putting up three points with a 47-yard field goal. The teams traded empty possessions until the end of the 1st half, when Baker finally found the end zone to take the lead into the locker room.
The teams continued to clamp down defensively in the third quarter, and MNU's chance to tie it up with a field goal was blocked, keeping the score 10-7 going into the final period.
In the fourth, MNU finally broke through, driving 90 yards over 12 plays to regain the lead. Cameron Finley capped the drive with a 4-yard touchdown run, putting the Pioneers up 14-10. But Baker struck back, marching downfield in six plays - capped by a 32-yard touchdown pass - to reclaim the lead at 17-14 with just under two minutes remaining.
MNU had another shot, but Baker's defense forced a fumble after a long completion, which the Wildcats returned deep into Pioneer territory. With 22 seconds left, Baker hit a 32-yard field goal to put Baker up 20-14. MNU actually got within striking distance in the final seconds, but the final desperation pass was intercepted, and Baker came away with the win.
"We just didn't make enough plays down the stretch," said head coach Paul Hansen. "I'm proud of how hard out guys played. We still have a shot at the playoffs, so we have to regroup quickly and play well next week. I'd also like to thank all our seniors for what they've done for our program."
Turning Point
Baker's forced fumble and subsequent 32-yard field goal in the final seconds cemented their victory.
Individual Leaders
Up Next
The next game is Saturday at Central Methodist (1-9, 1-4) at 1:00. A Pioneer victory would clinch at least a tie for the Heart South title.
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