Northampton comeback falls short against Northumberland

Pictured: Northampton’s Khaiden Davis, this week’s Bojangles Player of the Game.

Northumberland held off a late rally from Northampton Friday night, edging the Yellow Jackets 29-24 in an exciting season-opening high school football showdown at Hamilton Field.

The Indians struck first on a 38-yard quarterback keeper by senior Jasir Smith late in the opening quarter. But Northampton answered with Jerry Sturgis, who powered in from two yards out to give the Jackets an 8-7 lead after a successful two-point conversion.

From there, the game turned into a battle of big plays and missed opportunities. Northumberland’s Smith repeatedly broke free for long runs, including an 87-yard sprint from his own goal line in the third quarter that shifted momentum back to Northumberland. The Indians capitalized with another touchdown and two-point conversion to take control, 23-8.

Northampton came roaring back. Running back Khaiden Davis carried the load, racking up more than 150 yards of total offense and scoring twice—once on the ground and once through the air. Quarterback Lucas Kindt showed poise in his first start, leading the Jackets on multiple scoring drives and connecting on several key passes, including a long strike to Jeremiah White.

The Yellow Jackets had chances to steal the win late, including a possession inside the 10-yard line in the third quarter that ended in a turnover on downs, and an onside kick recovery that kept hope alive in the final minutes. But Northumberland’s defense stiffened when it mattered most, forcing a turnover on downs with just over a minute to play to secure the victory.

WESR’s Kenny Walker named Davis the Bojangles Player of the Game for his all-around performance.

Northampton will look to bounce back next week when they travel to Washington High School.