Football

Norwich 14, Owego 7

OWEGO – A last-second defensive stand allowed Norwich to preserve its first win of the season, Friday night at Owego.

Norwich’s second touchdown of the game, a five-yard TD run from Grant Brightman in the second quarter, stood up throughout the second half and into the waning seconds of the fourth.

Owego, directed by quarterback Brandon Morris, reached Norwich’s five-yard line with 11 seconds left, and was faced with a fourth-and-two. “It was the last play from scrimmage, and we didn’t even think they would get the play off,” said Norwich fourth-year head coach John Martinson.

Morris dropped back to pass, and under tremendous pressure from the NHS front, was sacked by junior Ryan Hayes to end the game.

“We had some outstanding play on defense from Ryan, Matt Burke, Matt Lippa, and Storm Cook,” Martinson said, who also noted Brightman’s team-high nine tackles. “Our guys did a great job staying at home and doing their jobs. Really, at the end of the game, you don’t want to be on defense and holding your breath. But we had kids step up.

Norwich overcame four turnovers – two fumbles and two interceptions – by taking advantage of some early scoring opportunities. Brightman received the opening kickoff – a short squib kick to the 25 – picked up a block from Burke, and raced 75 yards untouched for the opening touchdown.