Saturday, September 1, 2007

Victory proves Comets can persevere

After recieving mutiple injuries and at one time only having 14 players able to play one would think the comets would fade like they have in the past, but we are not the comets of previous seasons.
Our first drive started deep in Vancouver territory. We were able to march down the field, firing on all cylinders. Our line was making a big push to create large holes which made running the ball like driving a Mack truck down the freeway. I made a short scamper for a TD and my brother ran in the 2 point conversion. 8 - 0.
Our defense came out strong and caused them to gain negative yards in the first half. The defensive line did a great job pushing their offensive line backwards.
We added to our score in the 2nd quarter with a QB sneak. A two point conversion pass to Gabriel See made the score 16 - 0.
Unfortunately towards the end of the 2nd quarter I dislocated my shoulder and had to leave the game. This shoulder has been a problem for me my entire high school career. I have dislocated it 6 times. I had surgery on it March 2006. Time will tell if it is a season ending injury. I sure hope not. Mike Shirley, our center, hurt his knee right before halftime. Fortunately he was able to get back in the game and play offense the 2nd half.
My brother Austin had to take over at QB and did a very good job. We were a little deflated at the start of the 2nd half giving up 2 touchdowns and a 2 point conversion. 16 - 14 after 3 quarters.
Our guys were able to pull it together the 4th quarter. Austin made a great pass to Alan Erickson who rumbled into the endzone. Extra point failed. 22 - 16.
The fourth quarter brought injuries to Jesus Martinez, who prior to getting hurt had a huge run for a critical first down. Jason Gradt and Alan had to leave the game for a few plays due to cramped muscles. This forced new guys into unfamiliar positions. Everyone stepped up and we were able to keep Vancouver from scoring and held on for the win.
Jason anchored the offensive and defensive line and Alan showed great leadership skills. After the game Coach Eaton said that in previous seasons we would have just given up after our injuries. He said he was extremely proud of us for perservering and stepping up and getting the job done.

- Kyle Burkhalter, NHS QB,DB

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