Offensive back-and-forth ends with stop from Lancers 35-28 win against the Eagles

In a 4th down and 8 situation from the Lancers 30-yard line, quarterback Teddy Gleaton rolled out toward the North Point Eagle sideline. Johan Samyoa was able to swat the ball out of the receiver’s hands, sealing the game for the Lancers.

The first half wasn’t quite what the Lancers had wanted it to be. They were down 14-13 and needed some big plays if they wanted to win this ball game. So what happened? On the Eagles’ goal line, Brady Domroe tried to run in for a score but fumbled, and recovered for a touchdown by the left guard Scott Hummel. Xander McClure, who had 198 rushing yards, 2 touchdowns and a touchdown pass, converted the two-point conversion. As the crowd went wild, this would lead to a thrilling second half for the Lancers.

“It was huge. It gave us a lot of momentum for the second half and fueled us,” said McClure.

The following defensive drive, Ryan Barthlow was able to grab an interception on the Lancers goal line. However, a quick drive and punt by the Lancers led to a touchdown from LaSalle Rose to Gleaton. Gleaton helped carry the Eagles, not as much through the air but by running. He threw for 8/19 and 99 yards and an interception, but had 98 rushing yards, 3 rushing touchdowns, and the receiving touchdown just as the fourth quarter began.

Even with the slow first half, the Lancers scored 22 second half points to the Eagles’ 14. One of the biggest plays of the game, however, was in that first half. Quarterback Timmy Conner tossed it out to McClure and McClure then floated a pass to Samayoa and ran for a 39-yard touchdown. Lancer scores came from another impressive game from running backs in McCLure (2) and Domroe (1).

The Lancers play in their third consecutive state semifinals game against the Mergenthaler (Mervo) Mustangs (12-0) on November 29 at home. Make sure to follow @Jason_Byrd2021, @linganorefb, @LHSJournalism, and @FrederickSports to get the latest football coverage.