Penn Hills Varsity Football Triumphs 30-27 in Playoff Thriller Against Moon Area
Penn Hills Varsity Football secured a hard-fought 30-27 victory over the Moon Area Tigers on Friday, November 1, advancing further in the playoffs.
The game's coin toss was led by Hubie Bryant, a Penn Hills football legend, class of 1964 alum, and former Pittsburgh Steeler. Bryant had a standout career which included playing for the University of Minnesota and a three-season stint with the Steelers. He ended his professional football career with the New England Patriots in 1972.
The matchup between Penn Hills and Moon was an exciting, back-and-forth affair, with both teams exchanging leads throughout the game. Moon struck first in the opening quarter with an 80-yard touchdown, setting the tone early. The Tigers quickly extended their lead to 13-0 after a 3-yard touchdown run.
Penn Hills responded swiftly, with Naytel Mitchell breaking free for a 55-yard touchdown to bring the score to 13-7. But before the quarter ended, Moon answered with a 19-yard touchdown to stretch their lead to 20-7.
In the second quarter, Penn Hills fought back with Jay'mere Ellis scoring a touchdown to trim the deficit to 20-14 by halftime. The third quarter saw Penn Hills take their first lead, outscoring Moon in a 23-20 lead.
Moon regained the lead in the fourth quarter with a 6-yard touchdown and extra point, putting them ahead 27-23. But with 8:04 left on the clock, Mitchell delivered the game-winning play - a dazzling 69-yard touchdown run, giving Penn Hills a 30-27 lead they maintained until the final whistle.
Penn Hills will face Upper St. Clair in the Quarterfinals on Friday, November 8 at 7:00 p.m. at Upper St. Clair High School Stadium. Tickets for the game are available for purchase here. General admission is $7 and student tickets are $5. All tickets will be $7 and cash-only at the gate.
We encourage the community to come out and show their support as Penn Hills aim for another playoff victory!
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