WHITEHALL – The Vikings going into this game were struggling. They were looking for a win after week one and three losses to Unity Christian and Zeeland West, both top squads in the state. What better of a place to jump-start your season, then at home, against rival Montague.
The Cats’ themselves rolled into Whitehall on a 2 game win streak, one of which was over another conference rival, Oakridge. Who they beat in a close one, 14 – 7.
Even so, walking into this game, the question loomed in the air, would the Vikings of Whitehall or the Wildcats of Montague ring the “Bell” tonight?
Whitehall opened with a strong, defensive start. Montague’s Ryver Jarka lead his squad for about 4 plays and a couple of first downs before a strong defense stopped the Wildcats in their tracks. Forcing a turnover on downs to the Vikings.
Whitehall capitalized. Scoring on the ensuing plays. Cam Thompson leading them and scoring one of his many, many touchdowns on the night. When Coach Sigmon was asked about how important the Senior’s play was to their win he said “I think Cam has done a wonderful job for us all year long… tonight was just another night for him…”
The Cats’ were able to bounce back. Off an interception made by Fletcher Thommen. Montague received the ball in Viking territory and scored a short-field TD. That gave them the first, and only, lead they would have all game. The ground game, which included Thommen and Jarka was key to that drive. Which, if stopped, would prove crucial to the defensive gameplan for Whitehall.
After another defensive stonewalling by Montague, Cam “Do-It-All” Thompson scrambled on 4th and long, making possibly one of the most impressive throws all year to Hunter Osborne in the endzone. The Vikings followed that with a successful 2-point conversion as time expired to finish out the half, 14-7.
Going into the second half, the flood gates opened. Whitehall went on a tear, scoring four TD’s in the second half, one of which being a 43 yard rushing touchdown from Ryan Goodrich. Montague looked tired and it was apparent that they were when both Ryver Jarka, their key offensive man and Dylan Bailey went down late in the third with cramps and flaring soreness.
Montague, though tired and bruised, had some bright spots. After Jarka went down, Eli Peterson came back at QB for the Cats’ and shined, pushing them down another drive before getting stopped. Fletcher Thommen was also a huge aspect of the game for Montague. Specifically on the ground, he was key to their gameplan.
In a pivotal game, Cam Thompson emerged as the driving force behind the Vikings’ offense. His leadership extended beyond the stat sheet, where he led in multiple categories. As a senior, Thompson not only carried the offensive load but also quietly disrupted pass plays with an interception and several deflections. Most importantly, he showcased his readiness to take on the quarterback position—a role he had occasionally struggled with against formidable opponents.
Ryver Jarka continued to handle the ball for the Cats’, he was the leader for them on the field offensively. Montague ran many of plays for Jarka, including multiple QB keepers. The senior will continue to be the part of the primary duo that runs Montague’s potent rushing offense.
At the end of the night, Whitehall was the one to ring the “Bell”. They won this one 42-7. The Vikings will take on Manistee next week at home. Montague, will continue their tough road journey with a trek up to Ludington in week 5.
Key Moments from the Game
- Interception made by Cam in the endzone.
- Interception made by Fletcher Thommen on a tipped pass.
- 4th and long scramble pass deep into the endzone by Cam, caught by Hunter Osborne.
- Holding call bringing back the second of Whitehall’s touchdowns, initially
- Ryver Jarka went down with some back pain and spasms late in the 3rd
- Dylan Bailey went down early in the 4th with some cramping
- Ryan Goodrich found the endzone on a 43 yard rushing touchdown.
- Punt gone awry from Montague, recovered by Whitehall.
Note: We have not received statistics from either squad. As soon as we do. We will be sure to update the article. Thank you for your understanding!
Hear from Montague’s Justin Dennett and Whitehall’s Tony Sigmon below!
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