by Austin Marsman
Martin’s football team members left their old field with a mix of emotions and a 13-12 victory Friday over Galesburg Augusta. A newly constructed stadium awaits the Clippers next season as part of the district bond project.
The first half was highlighted by a great defensive effort by both teams, thus resulting in forced punts, multiple turnovers, interceptions, and ultimately no points on the board until late in the second quarter.
Galesburg eventually struck first with Abner Snyder putting up the only TD of the half. QB Max Landers opened the fourth quarter with a bruising touchdown, putting Galesburg up 12-0.
The Rams’ lead; however, would only last until the final five minutes when Martin showed up. Junior Carter Hilton scored a touchdown and brought a glimmer of hope for the home crowd.
With just 1:30 left in the fourth quarter, Travis Thorne (11) went all the way and scored amidst deafening cheers from the home bleachers. A 12-12 tie was broken when Hilton kicked the extra point to give the Clippers a 13-12 lead. Galesburg’s efforts to score, including a failed longshot field goal in the final seconds, were ultimately unsuccessful.
The MHS Fight Song echoed from the old stadium one last time as players, staff, students, alumni, and community members gathered at midfield to celebrate.
Martin football teams have played on the old field since the 1960s and the players were encouraged to walk the field one last time with the 2017 team after the game. Head coach Mike McGuire, a Martin alum, ended the walk with a few words in the east end zone. He said, “We couldn’t be prouder to be wearing the jersey right now and representing everyone who wore it before.”
It was also Senior and Parent’s Night, with both groups being honored for their dedication and hard work. Clipper Senior Austin Pillars has been a member of the varsity squad since his freshman year, the longest of all six seniors.
Before Friday’s game, Pillars said “If I can leave something for everyone to build on, hopefully, inspire someone… we’ve set a great foundation”.
The now 3-5 Clippers will wrap up the regular season next Friday in Lawton against the 2-6 Blue Devils.
PHOTOS: (Courtesy of Austin Marsman) Carter Hilton (16) in pursuit of Abner Snyder (21)
COVER PHOTO: A crowd gathers to sing the fight song one last time in the old stadium.
