Newcastle’s Racers wrapped up the Class 5A-1 District title with a game-winning field goal at the one second mark Friday night.
The Racers (5-0, 6-3) remained undefeated in District play after the 24-21 game against Bishop McGuinness (3-2, 6-3).
The Racers host Southeast (1-4, 4-4) Friday night. They are ranked number 6 in the District. A Newcastle win will guarantee that the Racers host two State Playoff games in a row.
Newcastle Head Coach Jeff Brickman said the game against Bishop McGuinness was very competitive. He said the statistic were pretty even, and both teams not only ran the ball well, but also passed efficiently. The two teams traded first quarter touchdowns, entering the second quarter, 7-7. Neither team would score in the second quarter.
The third quarter resulted in another 7-7 output, making the game a 14-14 tie entering the fourth quarter. A touchdown apiece in the fourth quarter left the game tied at 21 apiece until the final second.
Brickman said, “Alec Shumard intercepted a ball in the third quarter and ran it back inside the 10-yard line to set up a score for us. It was a huge momentum swinging play.”
Brickman said, “Then down the stretch, (6’5” junior) Santorrio Boykins made a one-handed catch for 40 yards that led to our game-winning field goal by Bryan Medrano with one second remaining on the clock.”
Quarterback Jackson Schanuel was 14-18 passing for 140 yards and one touchdown. He also ran for 112 yards on 14 carries, and another touchdown. TJ Bradford rushed for 130 yards on 25 carries and one touchdown. Bradford and Shumard both had interceptions for the Racers.
Taj Smith and Nic Lozano were recognized with the most knockdowns. Preston Scagnetti earned the Sledgehammer award.
Schanuel took the honors of offense player of the game, while Smith was named defense player of the game. Medrano was given the award for special teams.
Cody Nix was awarded Most Valuable Player of the game.
Friday night against Southeast should be a great game, according to Brickman. He said Southeast has several great athletes and a good coaching staff. Brickman added that it is Senior Night for the Racers.
