FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. - Another week, another close
finish.
This time it was Methodist University that took victory from
Shenandoah University's grasp as the Monarchs hit a 42-yard field
goal in overtime to secure a 17-14 USA South win.
Tyler Mosko, who had missed from 38 yards as regulation expired,
split the uprights in the extra session for the Monarchs (2-4, 1-2
USA South).
Shenandoah (1-5, 0-3) didn't help itself as it was 2 for 6 in
the MU red zone with a fumble, an interception and two failed
fourth down conversions in addition to having its own field goal
attempt in overtime blocked.
Trailing 14-0 midway through the third, the Hornets got
themselves back in it by converting a Larry Gibbs interception
into a two-play, 18-yard drive.
After the first play lost three yards, junior Keone Kyle busted up
the middle for a 21-yard TD run with 7:06 remaining in the
stanza.
At the 2:05 mark of the fourth, Kyle polished off an eight-play,
68-yard drive with his second TD of the afternoon to tie the
contest at 14.
Kyle led all rushers in the game with 34 carries for 167 yards.
This is the fourth time in six games this season that he has
cracked the 100-yard barrier.
With four games left this season, Kyle needs just over 200 yards
to become the third runner in SU history to rush for 1000 yards in
a season.
Methodist scored both of its TD's through the air - senior Erik
Teague hit Grady Hart for a 39-yard strike down the right sideline
with 2:01 to play in the second period and after MU held the
Hornets to a three-and-out, finished off a five-play, 41-yard drive
by finding Nathan Kindley for a two-yard score with 15 seconds
remaining.
Following Shenandoah's game-tying touchdown, the two teams
traded possessions before MU was able to convert a short punt into
Mosko's attempt at the end of regulation. That kick missed wide
right, but he was able to redeem himself on his team's next
possession.
SU outgained its hosts 330-267 including a 197-54 advantage on
the ground. The Hornets also held possession for 39:17.
The Hornets host Ferrum next Saturday night at 7 in a
Homecoming contest.
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