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PORT CHARLOTTE, FL — In a Friday showdown that kept the spectators on the edge of their seats, the Manatee Hurricanes showcased a dramatic comeback against the Port Charlotte Pirates during an away non-district matchup, surging to a 31-24 triumph.
The gridiron clash saw the Pirates drawing first blood with a touchdown on their second drive. However, Damontez McDowell showcased stellar defensive acumen by blocking the subsequent extra-point attempt, keeping the scoreline at 6-0 in favor of the Pirates.
As the battle raged on, it was Andrew Heidel's synergy with Bon Bean Jr. that stirred the Hurricanes' offensive storm. Four drives post the Pirates’ initial score, Heidel connected with Bean Jr. for a notable 21-yard gain, quickly followed by a 36-yard touchdown pass to Bean Jr., propelling the Hurricanes to a 7-6 lead.
A short-lived jubilation, as the Pirates hit back with a rushing touchdown, though failing to capitalize on a 2-point conversion, leading 12-7.
The second quarter saw both defenses holding firm, and the score remained unchanged as teams headed into the halftime break.
Opening the second half, the Pirates extended their lead to 18-7 with a passing touchdown, once again failing at a 2-point conversion attempt.
The Hurricanes weren’t ready to let the game slip away just yet. A couple of drives later, Heidel found Torey Gilley for a 21-yard gain, and soon after, Cade Weiskopf was on the receiving end of a 9-yard touchdown pass from Heidel, narrowing the deficit to 18-14.
As the clock ticked into the fourth quarter, a solid 24-yard connection between Heidel and Gilley set the stage for Joey Colonneso to knock a 28-yard field goal through the uprights, inching the Hurricanes closer at 18-17.
An unsuccessful field goal attempt by the Pirates gave the Hurricanes the momentum they needed. Heidel and Gilley paired up again for a 36-yard gain, followed by a 35-yard touchdown connection, reversing the lead to 23-18 in favor of Manatee.
The see-saw battle continued as the Pirates retaliated with a touchdown, snatching the lead back at 24-23.
Unyielding in their resolve, Heidel orchestrated another offensive masterclass, linking up with Cory Sanders for a 17-yard gain, followed by a breathtaking 56-yard touchdown pass to Bean Jr. A successful 2-point conversion toss to Weiskopf catapulted Manatee to a 31-24 lead.
As the Pirates scrambled to respond, Daron Jean showcased impeccable timing, intercepting a pass to cease Port Charlotte's drive and cementing the 31-24 victory for the Hurricanes.
This scintillating comeback extended the Manatee Hurricanes’ unbeaten run to 5-0 for the season. As the Hurricanes gear up to face the Lakewood Ranch Mustangs next Friday in an away district game, this victory surely bolsters their confidence and sends a resounding message to their rivals about the indomitable spirit that drives Manatee Football.
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