Holley gridders earn first win in thriller

Photo by Cheryl Wertman – Kevin Avery (82) scored a touchdown and two-point conversion in the final half minute to earn Holley its first victory of the season this afternoon.

HOLLEY – Putting together a fast start and a strong finish, Holley nipped CG Finney 21-19 this afternoon for the Hawks first victory of the season.

Kevin Avery scored on a two-yard touchdown run with just 25 seconds remaining and then added the two-point conversion to give Holley the rain soaked come-from-behind victory.

“It’s an awesome feeling for the kids to get that first win,” Holley coach Mark Mattice said. “Our senior leadership carried the team.”

Holley also got off to a quick start as Dan Flanagan returned the game opening kickoff 95 yards for a touchdown and Justin Parker added the extra point kick to give the Hawks a 7-0 lead.

Holley maintained a slender 7-6 lead at the half but CG Finney rallied iinto a 19-7 advantage in the third quarter.

However, Holley came battling back as a five-yard touchdown run by Avery cut the deficit to 19-13.

The Hawks defense then came up with a huge turnover late to set up the game winning score.

Avery had a fumble recovery with just 1:30 remaining to give Holley the comeback opportunity.

Two big pickups on sweep plays by Clarence Moyer helped Holley drive to the Finney two yard line.

Avery then capped off the dramatic rally with a two yard touchdown run and a two-point conversion carry to end the Hawks season long eight game losing streak.