In a tough matchup on Friday, September 4, the Somerset Golden Eagles faced off against the Huntingdon Bearcats, ultimately falling 28-14 in a LHAC crossover game. The Bearcats showcased a powerful ground game, racking up 254 rushing yards, which proved to be a decisive factor in the outcome.
First-year head coach Braden Fochtman emphasized the importance of effort leading into the game. After a lackluster performance in their previous outing, Fochtman noted a marked improvement in his team's effort, although he acknowledged missed opportunities that could have changed the game’s momentum. "Being a new coach and with a new staff, I feel we are all going to get better as the season goes on," Fochtman stated, highlighting the learning curve his team is experiencing.
The Bearcats struck first, scoring on their opening drive. Senior quarterback Reese Hughes led the charge with a series of impressive runs, covering 62 yards and setting up a first-and-goal situation. Although running back Cole Lane was stopped just short of the end zone, tight end Ryder Snare recovered a fumble in the end zone, giving Huntingdon a 6-0 lead after a failed extra point attempt.
Somerset responded with a creative offensive strategy, as they were without star wide receiver Caden Stephens due to a knee injury. Fochtman turned to senior Drew Miller, who took snaps out of the wildcat formation. Miller's efforts culminated in a 31-yard touchdown run, tying the game at 6-6 after a short extra point attempt, following a penalty that pushed the PAT back.
Just moments later, Huntingdon answered back with a 73-yard touchdown pass from Hughes to receiver Javaughn Dodson, reclaiming the lead at 12-6. The first half saw Somerset struggle to capitalize on opportunities, failing to convert on two fourth-down attempts while in Bearcat territory.
Huntingdon extended its lead to 20-6 before halftime with a 2-yard touchdown run by Lane. Hughes, who had been instrumental in the first half, unfortunately left the game due to an injury and did not return.
Lane continued to shine, scoring his second touchdown of the game with a 1-yard run in the third quarter, pushing the Bearcats' lead to 28-6 after a successful two-point conversion.
Somerset managed to score late in the game with a touchdown pass from Garret Reese to Trae Bhullar, followed by a successful two-point conversion, making the final score 28-14. Despite the loss, Fochtman remains optimistic about his team's development as they navigate a challenging schedule that includes formidable opponents like Huntingdon and Penn Cambria, a 2025 PIAA 3A semifinalist.
Fochtman concluded by acknowledging Huntingdon's athleticism, stating, "They have a three-headed animal, and when we stopped one or two, the third one got loose. We have to focus on ourselves moving forward and not worry about our opponents. We have to execute and worry about being better every play." As the season progresses, Somerset will look to build on their performance and improve under Fochtman's leadership.
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