Coming off of last week’s win, the stakes and challenge were increased significantly as the Spartans headed across Beechmont for their showdown game v Anderson. The challenges proved to be too great as Anderson scored early and often in a 62-20 victory over the Spartans.
As has often been the case this season, the Spartans got off to a sluggish start and trailed 21-0 with 4 minutes remaining in the first quarter. The Spartans put a score on the board early in the second quarter on a 10 yard touchdown pass from Devan Nigam to Will Schroeder, cutting the lead to 21-6. Anderson answered with two more TDs, before George Machenheimer’s spectacular 82 yard kickoff return for a touchdown with 19 seconds remaining in the half.
Trailing 34-13 to start the second half, the Spartans produced a quick drive ending with a Machenheimer 44 yard touchdown reception cutting the lead to 14, noticeably quieting the crowd. Unfortunately the Raptors brought the crowd back to life, scoring 4 more times, running the score up on the Spartans.
In addition to Machenheimer’s big night, Clark Helgason had a solid game running the ball, ending with 94 yards on 19 carries. Will Schroeder led the team with 6 receptions and the earlier mentioned TD reception.
The Spartans close the season Friday at home versus Milford. Looking for a big turnout to celebrate this year’s senior class. While the season has been disappointing, this group of seniors has been a big part of a lot of Spartan wins and will be missed going forward.