Berne Union dominates Millersport in shutout victory
By: Reagan Neal
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FAIRFEILD COUNTY, Ohio (WOUB) – The 2-2 Millersport Lakers hosted a conference opponent in the 3-1 Berne Union Rockets in a chaotic MSL–Cardinal matchup. Berne pulled away early and kept the foot on the gas, winning 41-0.
The first quarter was dominated by the Berne Union offense. Junior TE Bryson Stoneburner got it going early for the Rockets. Crashing into the end zone off a 10-yard touchdown run within the first 50 seconds of the game. Berne’s defense walked on the field with the same energy. Millersport couldn’t get anything going with two short rushes on its first drive, with a fumble on third down that it recovered.
Berne Union couldn’t get the ball moving on its second drive of the game. This was perfect timing for Millersport to get its offense situated, but unfortunately, it was the exact opposite. From high snaps to fumbles on handoffs, the Lakers were struggling to handle the football and were quickly met with another fourth down.
The second quarter was just about the same for the Millersport offense. Lakers QB Nicholas Yingling threw a costly interception at their own 27-yard line. Berne was looking at another massive scoring opportunity, and they took advantage of it. Senior RB Mayson Walton walked it in the end zone with a 16-yard rushing touchdown to put Berne Union up 13-0.
Millersport was struggling to contain the Berne offense. Tackles were broken, linebackers wouldn’t drop, and it was looking like an easy path to victory for the Rockets.
Berne Union got another chance after forcing the Lakers to punt on fourth down. The punt was poorly hit and rolled back to the Millersport 27-yard line. Setting up the Rockets for success. It was Ashton Orouke’s turn to take over. On third-and-8, Orouke sealed in a 12-yard pass to keep the Berne drive alive. With a fresh set of downs in the red zone, Orouke got another reception for a 9-yard passing touchdown. Putting the Rockets up 20-0 just before halftime.
Ultimately, Millersport never got the ball rolling on offense. Its defense followed suit and Berne took advantage quickly. Next week Berne will take on Worthington Christian and Millersport will take on conference opponent Grove City Christian.