SALYERSVILLE — Determined Magoffin County outlasted Martin County 16-14 in a non-district game on Friday, Sept. 15.
Magoffin County, under the direction of Coach John DeRossett, led 16-7 at halftime.
Martin County returned to the endzone in the second half, but the Hornets managed to hold on for the win.
Aden Barnett, who worked his way back to the gridiron for Magoffin County after being sidelined following the Hornets’ season opener, made a strong impact. Barnett completed a 40-yard touchdown pass to Russell Cruz and hauled in a two-point conversion reception.
In addition to Cruz’s scoring catch, Ian McCarty supplied a three-yard rushing touchdown for the Hornets.
Several players contributed offensively for the Hornets, including quarterback Dason Burchett, who reached the endzone on a two-point conversion run.
Defensively, Magoffin County held Martin County to under 200 rushing yards.
Brock Messer led the Cardinals, rushing 11 times for 111 yards and two touchdowns.
“We have been putting some good practices and meeting time together,” DeRossett said, following his team’s thrilling win. “Our kids give great effort and never quit. The key is not committing errors like turnovers and busted coverage. When this team plays error-free football, we will have a chance. We have moved the ball all year long, but sometimes turn it over. We are getting better every practice. It is great to see young people working hard towards their goals.”
Magoffin County is scheduled to host Belfry for its Class 3A, District 8 opener on Friday, Sept. 22.
