The weather for the first eight weeks of the 2020 season was a virtual non factor regarding Hillsboro football. However, that changed dramatically for a week nine match up between Clermont Northeastern's Rockets and the Hillsboro Indians.
Hillsboro, similar to last week, scored first on a 16 yard run by Travis Ross with only 42 seconds left in the first quarter. Nick Turner added the extra point via kick and the Indians had a 7-0 advantage. That lead held until the 9:08 mark of the second period when CNE's Kris Jenkins hit Angus Krug for a 20 yard touchdown pass. That, combined with the extra point kick by Jered Glancy, made the score 7-7.
However, Hillsboro was on the cusp of the most exciting play of the game. With only 25 seconds left on the scoreboard clock, Christopher Stout connected with Lawton Parry on a 25 yard strike over the middle of the defense to get into the end zone for the go-ahead score. Then, to the delight of the crowd, HHS converted on a two point attempt to give them an 8 point lead going into the intermission up 15-7.
The third quarter saw Jenkins again become a factor. This time he scored on a one yard plunge to cut the Hillsboro lead to 15 -- 13. CNE quickly decided to go for the tie....but failed to convert.
It was at this juncture that the weather became a major issue --- the officials cleared the field and play was suspended. The player of the game (up to that point) was Hillsboro's Ethan Grooms, who was having an excellent defensive game (intercepting 2 passes).
The game was completed Saturday, at 3pm with the Indians prevailing 22-20.
It should be noted that HHS will play a tenth game next week at Portsmouth West.