GEORGETOWN TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) — There were probably some people that figured West Catholic would produce another postseason run despite barely getting into the state playoffs with a 5-4 record.
Unity Christian spoiled those plans and delivered an inspiring performance in Friday’s Division 5 pre-district game at Jenison High School.
The Crusaders dominated the first half en route to a 41-22 win over the five-time defending state champions.
Unity (8-2) advances to next week’s district final against Muskegon Oakridge, which defeated Belding.
The victory ended an incredible five-year run by West Catholic, which had won 25 straight postseason games and five consecutive state crowns.
The Falcons’ last playoff loss occurred in 2012 against Portland in the state finals.
“There is no way anybody around here ever expected something like that to happen,” Unity coach Craig Tibbe said. “For us, maybe we surprised them a little bit, but the kids played hard and they showed up ready to play.
“They knew they were playing a good team, and it’s a great program, but our kids played really hard tonight and the first half was huge.”
Unity opened the scoring with a 3-yard touchdown run by sophomore Malekhi Obade and led 8-0 midway through the first quarter.
After recovering a fumble at midfield, the Crusaders padded their lead with a short touchdown run from senior Max Buikema.
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