North County Defense Holds Strong, Edges Sullivan 24-22 in Thrilling Finish

UPDATE: In a nail-biting showdown on October 19, 2023, the North County Raiders triumphed over the Sullivan Eagles with a score of 24-22, thanks to a staunch defensive performance in the red zone. The game took place in Bonne Terre and marked North County’s third consecutive victory as they push for a better playoff position.

With just 2:04 remaining in the game, the North County defense made critical stops, denying Sullivan a two-point conversion that could have leveled the score. Senior defensive end McKinley Lynn delivered a game-changing strip sack in the final minute, allowing teammate Ryder McDowell to recover the fumble and secure the win.

Junior quarterback Braydee McClure rebounded from an earlier mistake to lead his team with two touchdown runs, finishing with 137 yards on 13 carries. His performance included an electrifying 86-yard touchdown run that shifted momentum back to North County after Sullivan had mounted a strong challenge.

The Raiders’ defense was put to the test against Sullivan’s powerful ground game, which racked up 194 rushing yards. Despite this, North County’s defense, spearheaded by Jaxon Scherffius and Lynn, made decisive plays to halt Sullivan’s progress in critical moments.

After a first half that ended in a 16-16 tie, North County struggled early in the third quarter, punting on two consecutive possessions. However, they quickly regained their footing. After McClure’s impressive run, Noah Lashley converted a crucial two-point attempt, giving the Raiders a 24-16 lead with 7:37 left in the game.

Sullivan was not finished yet. The Eagles responded with a lengthy drive that consumed nearly seven minutes of the clock. They marched down the field and scored a touchdown, courtesy of a 6-yard pass from quarterback Mahlon Foster to Hayden Oldham. However, North County’s defense held firm once more, preventing the two-point conversion attempt.

In the closing moments, Sullivan forced a punt that placed the Raiders deep in their own territory. Lynn’s relentless pressure culminated in another fumble by Foster, sealing the game for North County and leaving Sullivan with a bitter end to their six-game winning streak.

North County, now boasting a record of 4-5, has significantly improved its chances of securing a home game in the upcoming district playoffs. Their final game will determine their playoff seeding, with potential matchups against Perryville, De Soto, and Sikeston on the horizon.

As the teams left the field, the emotional stakes were high, with both players and fans celebrating a hard-fought victory. North County is poised for a strong finish to the season, while Sullivan will need to regroup after a tough loss.

Stay tuned for further updates as the playoff picture continues to unfold.