LATE GAME PUSH LIFTS LAKERS OVER REBELS

Photo Credit: Kelly York Summers

Andover, OH- In a electric OHSAA 1st round matchup in Andover, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers took on the Crestview Rebels in a hard-fought battle that would decide their playoff fate. The first half of the game saw both teams locked in a defensive struggle, resulting in no scores in either the first or second quarter.

The game’s turning point came in the third quarter, with 6:41 left on the clock, when Crestview’s Jameson English connected with Joey Carr for a 5-yard touchdown pass, followed by a successful extra point. This put the Rebels ahead 7-0, putting pressure on the Lakers.

However, the Lakers responded with determination, as Ty Vickery powered through the defense for a 1-yard touchdown run, and a successful 2-point conversion put Pymatuning Valley ahead 8-7 with 1:41 left in the third quarter.

As the game entered the fourth quarter, Crestview reclaimed the lead with Max Hawkins 1-yard touchdown run and an extra point, making it 14-8 with 6:25 remaining. But the Lakers weren’t ready to give up. With 2:51 left in the game, Ty Vickery once again proved his worth, scoring a crucial 5-yard touchdown, and a successful 2-point conversion, this time completed by Ryan Croston, put the Lakers ahead 16-14.

The game’s defining moment occurred on that last 2-point conversion when an initially injured Ryan Croston was stopped on the line but pushed across by teammate Ty Vickery, sealing the victory for Pymatuning Valley.

With a final score of Pymatuning Valley 16 – Crestview 14, the Lakers secured their fourth consecutive playoff appearance. The Lakers, now with an 8-3 record, are set to face the Mogadore Hornets (9-2) on the road in the second round of the OHSAA playoffs, while the Crestview Rebels (5-6) concluded their season with this hard-fought loss. It was a memorable and emotional night for the Lakers and their fans as they look forward to the challenges of the postseason.