Crystal City blocks Bluejays' upset attempt

sports@standard-democrat.com

CRYSTAL CITY -- In what would have been a game-tying attempt, the Charleston Bluejays had their chances at a first round upset on Wednesday thwarted by a pair of Crystal City hands.

Down by three with 1:25 left in regulation, the Bluejays tried for a 29-yard field goal on fourth and goal. However, the Hornets broke through Charleston's line of defense and knocked down their game-saving attempt to preserve a 16-13 win.

Charleston ends their season with a 5-6 record and a first-time playoff appearance since 2007, making a huge leap forward in what has been a dispirited time for the Bluejays' football program as of late.

Charleston's Jamaul Gray gave the Bluejays an early 7-0 lead after a 1-yard touchdown run with 8:12 left in the first quarter.

Crystal City gained the lead in the second when Nick Rothweiler ran in a touchdown within the opening minutes of the quarter.

The Hornets extended their lead in the fourth quarter when Stacey Thornton scrambled in for a 56-yard run. Michael Bohnert ran in Crystal City's 2-point conversion to give the Hornets a 16-7 lead.

Gray hauled in a 47-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Mike Hull, who completed 7 of 10 passes for a total of 96 yards, with 6:53 left in the final quarter.

Charleston was led by Maurice Moore who had 112 rushing yards on 22 carries. Gray added 20 carries for 75 yards.