RECAP: Deflected Pass Helps Lead Panthers to Week 1 Victory

LAKE GEORGE - It took 20 minutes before the first points of the game, but they came wildly.

For the Hadley-Luzerne/Lake George WarEagles, a Hoosick Falls Panthers turnover turned into 6 points when Michael Johnson connected with Chris Becker for a 3 yard touchdown pass with just over two minutes to play in the half.

But Hoosick Falls answered back in one of the most unpredictable ways, as a Sam Richard pass to Jeffrey Vincent was finger-tipped into the hands of teammate Nick Giordano, who had all but one WarEagle beat when he caught the pass, and powered past for the 70 yard touchdown score.

Both extra point attempts were missed, resulting in a 6-6 halftime score.

With the ball to begin the third quarter, Hoosick Falls would pull ahead for good, scoring with a touchdown run by Drew Hoag to give the Panthers the 13-6 lead.

It would be a score that would last until the final whistle.

Several attempts by the WarEagles to draw even fizzled, either by punt or by a fumble (in Hoosick Falls territory).  One final attempt by the WarEagles to draw even resulted in a turnover of downs, and the Panthers would be able to drain the clock to give them the first win of the season.

Hoosick Falls will be on the road next Friday to face the Corinth Tomahawks.  The WarEagles hit the road and will play the Braves of Fonda-Fultonville.

PLAYER OF THE GAME:
For every game we are broadcasting on FOX Sports Radio 97.9/1230, we are going to designate a player who we felt was the most important player in that team's victory.  For this game, that designation goes to Sam Richard, who passed for over 200 yards, including that 70 yard touchdown toss in the 2nd quarter.  While he had two interceptions, his offensive power will be fun to watch as the season progresses for the Hoosick Falls Panthers.