Last second heroics propel Comets to win over Middletown

Jack Mendelsohn | The Chronicle Sports

A six yard touchdown pass in the game’s final seconds from senior quarterback Ashton Sheafe to senior receiver Ethan Jordan spoiled Homecoming for the Middletown Middies and gave the Mason Comets a hard fought 17-14 victory Friday night on the Middies’ home field. 

It was a tale of two halves for the Comets. The Middies jumped ahead early taking a 14-3 lead into halftime. In the second half the Comets’ defense held Middletown scoreless while the Comets scored on a third quarter Temi Adesanya touchdown run and then closed out the game with the closing seconds’ heroic hookup between Sheafe and Jordan. 

At the half Head Coach Brian Castner made some minor adjustments to the scheme and reminded his team that they were still in the game despite a stagnant first half offense. Castner felt the offense took a huge step in the second half when Sheafe started to find his rhythm. 

“Ashton got off to a slow start,” Castner said. “But in the second half, he got after it. He took the ball and the game into his own hands, and he definitely answered.” 

Sheafe did indeed find that rhythm, especially with his legs, rushing for 86 yards on 19 carries. Sheafe concluded the game going 9 of 18 passing with 66 yards, one touchdown and one interception. 

Mason’s defense also played a huge role in turning this game around. Middletown jumped out to a quick start in the first quarter when Maxmillian Johnson scored on a 41 yard touchdown pass from Jeremiah Landers. The Comets answered with a 32 yard field goal from Max Gogul but once again Landers made another big play early in the second quarter alluding Mason defenders on his way to a 33 yard touchdown run.  That would be the end of scoring by the home team as the Mason defense rallied in the second half. 

“They never gave up,” Castner said. “And they played together through adversity.”

Mason’s defense managed to stop Middie drives numerous times in the second half including a key fourth and inches quarterback keeper where the Comets turned back a Middletown drive to preserve the second half shut out. 

Mason’s discipline also proved to be a key factor in the team’s success. The Comets managed to limit their mistakes, committing only six penalties.  On the other hand, the Middies racked up 11 penalties, setting them back a total of 120 yards, many of which extended Mason drives, allowing them extra opportunities. 

Mason’s offense took full advantage of the Middletown mistakes. During the second half, the Comets often were set up with a favorable field position. Other than penalties, Mason was given great field position by the special teams as well, on two kick off returns Mason averaged 37 yards per return, with the longest return being 57 yards by returner Preston Estoesta. 

Mason improved to 3-4 overall and evened their conference record at 3-3. The Comets, winners of two in a row, will take on the winless Colerain Cardinals Friday night.