Two late field goals in Week 4, one as time expired and the other with 2:11 left to play, sealed wins for two Jones County team’s last Friday night.
Laurel (2-2), who trailed Petal 23-22 with three-seconds left on the clock sent senior kicker Juan Lechuga out on the field to attempt a 26-yard FG. He nailed it, throwing both arms in the upright position as soon as he made contact with the ball and the final bummer sounded.
“It started in the pre-game, coach walked up to me and told me to practice my field goals because we were going to win the game by one,” said the senior kicker. “Before the ball sailed through, I threw my hands up because I knew I kicked it right.”
“He [Lechuga] has worked extremely hard in the off-season,” said Laurel head coach Todd Breland. “His leg is so much stronger than it was a year ago. When we had the field goal unit out on the field during the timeout, and he was at the tee by himself, we made eye contact. I winked at him, and he smiled back. I knew then [that he was going to do the job for us.]”
It was the second straight year; Laurel defeated Petal on a last second field goal.
West Jones (2-2) faced a similar situation Friday night against Bay Springs.
“It was one of those games were your defense was playing so well that you’re happy, but your offense is playing so bad that you’re not,” said West Jones head coach Scott Pierson. “Your emotions are high and low. You love the effort and energy on one side of the ball, but you’re frustrated with the effort and energy on the other side of the ball.”
The Mustangs edged out an 8-7 win against the Bulldogs on a late field goal by junior kicker Walker Thompson.
“It was a nerve-racking game,” said Thompson. “Special teams affected the game and won it for us for sure.”
Thompson played a part in all eight Mustang points (two FG’s and a safety), including his punt that pinned Bay Springs on the 1-yard line and later resulted in a safety.
“We had no choice [but to go for the FG late],” said Pierson. “Thompson is just that good, and we know it. He is a weapon for us, whether he’s punting or kicking the ball. Anytime we get within the 30-yard line; we don’t hesitate to use him.”
With two kickers deciding last Friday night’s games, it’s a no-brainer to name both Week 4 Sports601 Jones County Co-Players of the Week.
