Park Hill posts second half comeback victory

A 24-14 come-from-behind victory against Truman (0-4) last week was a great way to build momentum into this Friday’s homecoming game against Ruskin (0-4). The win evened the Trojans’ record to 2-2 on the year and gives them added confidence as they next face a Ruskin team who was deeply bruised by a 70-6 loss to Park Hill South last week. Making the trip to Park Hill District Stadium for the second week in a row, the Eagles are a team known for their speed and big play ability, but will see themselves at a disadvantage in regards to Park Hill’s size and athleticism.

While every team would prefer to be described as a second-half team if they had the option, the Trojans have certainly lived up to it in their two wins so far this year, both of which have resulted from comebacks staged in the game’s final minutes. Park Hill would have no other choice last Friday against Truman as they found themselves in a 14-0 hole at halftime after committing three turnovers in the first half.

Park Hill sophomore Kenyatte Harris gave the Trojans a spark late in the third quarter when he took a handoff 41 yards for a touchdown, leaving them with only a 14-7 deficit. For Harris, it would be a breakout game, racking up 159 yards on 15 carries by the end of the night. A Mitch Tittone 11-yard touchdown run and extra point would eventually tie the game 14-14 in the fourth quarter.

After a strong defensive stand, the Trojans received the ball back and took full advantage of their opportunity to convert their comeback victory. An 11 play,  55 yard drive led to a 26-yard go-ahead field goal from Tittone to give Park Hill their first lead of the game, up 17-14 with less than two minutes to play. On the ensuing possession, in need of another defensive stop, Park Hill’s John Balsamo put the game out of reach when he intercepted Truman quarterback Alex Ryan’s pass and returned it for a touchdown, sealing a 24-14 victory for the Trojans.