Hart and Kent City football met last fall for a historic postseason opportunity for the Pirates that saw them win the program’s first ever playoff game. A non-conference rematch in 2024 ended in favor of the Eagles, Friday, Sept. 20, with Kent City taking a 30-6 victory.
Déjà Vu was in full effect for the Pirates in that loss as they found themselves locked in a close contest through the first half of play. Just one week ago, Hart was knotted up with rival Shelby last week with each team having scored just once through two three quarters. The Pirates were able to break out in the fourth quarter to claim victory in that one.
Fate was on the side of Kent City this week, much to the dismay of Hart. The Eagles led a tight game 6-0 through two quarters with Hart unable to find an answer. The Pirates’ defense did their best to hold that score in the second half, but Kent City broke through.
24 unanswered points pushed the Eagles past the Pirates as Kent City’s offense came alive.
Hart was able to break through and avoid the shutout in the fourth quarter. Sophomore Keaghan Monroe capped off a long drive with a one-yard touchdown run to end the game at 30-6.
Senior quarterback Halen Boos went 4-of-11 passing for 66 yards while freshman quarterback Kolton Rockwell completed two passes for 56 yards. Senior Eman Hertzler was the number one option through the air, hauling in four passes for 66 yards.
On defense, Kyle Greiner led the Pirates with 11 tackles while Alex Hicks posted eight.
The Pirates (2-2, 1-1 WMC Rivers) will look to avoid consecutive losses when they travel to North Muskegon, Friday, Sept. 27. The Norsemen currently lead the conference at 3-0.
